DRINK MORE COFFEE...

Almost everyone I know is detoxing. This is putting enormous pressure on me, being a fitness professional and all.
So this morning I thought about giving up coffee. For about a nanosecond.
Once I had decided this was one of those 'unrealistic' goals, I set about researching the benefits of drinking coffee, so I could feel ok about it!
The latest research has not only confirmed that moderate coffee consumption doesn't cause harm, it's also uncovered possible benefits. Coffee may reduce the risk of developing gallstones, discourage the development of colon cancer, improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of liver damage in people at high risk for liver disease, and reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease. Coffee has also been shown to improve endurance performance in long-duration physical activities, and it's extremely high in antioxidants, so counter-acts all those nasty free radicals.
It would be positively reckless of me to stop drinking coffee now, surely; if anything I ought to consider increasing my intake!
I would say there are a few golden rules to happy coffee drinking though.
1. Always freshly made - no instant granules. Never.
2. Any hint of bitterness - send it back. The old, used coffee has built up and not been brushed out properly.
3. Tell the barrista if you are particular (like me) and must have just the right amount of milk. This might provoke a sulk, but don't be deterred, especially if it's Starbucks..they're totally fleecing you anyway, so be awkward and feel like you're getting your money's worth.
4. And never drink coffee after 5pm if you value your 8 hours sleep.
Happy supping!!