Benefits of drinking Coffee

The Proven Benefits of Drinking Proper Coffee (How It Helps Your Plants Too!)

At The Pear Tree Pantry, we’re all about doing things properly. That includes serving proper coffee—made from high-quality, responsibly sourced beans, ground fresh and brewed with care. But did you know your daily cup of coffee doesn’t just taste great—it also comes with some impressive health benefits? And once you’ve enjoyed your brew, those leftover grounds have a second life in the garden.

Here’s why drinking proper coffee is good for both you and the planet.

Coffee for the Body: A Natural Boost of Goodness

1. Improved Physical Performance

Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, which signals the body to break down fat cells and use them for energy. Studies show that drinking coffee before physical activity can enhance endurance and reduce the perception of effort, making it popular among athletes.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

Coffee is one of the biggest sources of antioxidants in the Western diet. These compounds help fight inflammation and neutralize free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

3. Supports Heart Health (in Moderation)

While excessive caffeine isn’t ideal, moderate coffee consumption (2–4 cups per day) has been linked with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Protects Against Type 2 Diabetes

Research has shown that regular coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Compounds in coffee help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.

Coffee for the Mind: Fuel for Focus and Mood

1. Enhanced Brain Function

Caffeine is a known stimulant. It blocks adenosine (a neurotransmitter that makes you feel sleepy) and increases the release of dopamine and norepinephrine, improving concentration, alertness, and short-term memory.

2. Lower Risk of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Long-term coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. It’s believed that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee may protect brain cells from damage.

3. Mood-Boosting Properties

Coffee drinkers are statistically less likely to suffer from depression. In fact, a Harvard study found that people who drank four or more cups of coffee a day had a 20% lower risk of depression. That might help explain why your morning brew feels like a hug in a mug.

Coffee for the Garden: A Secret Weapon for Your Soil

Don’t toss those used coffee grounds—your plants will thank you! You can use the Pear Tree Pantry’s used coffee grounds, our coffee grounds are made up from Forge Coffee Roasters which is local to us based at Sheffield.

1. Adds Organic Matter

Used coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which is essential for plant growth. Adding them to your compost or directly into the soil helps improve structure, aeration, and water retention.

2. Encourages Beneficial Microorganisms

Coffee grounds promote the growth of microorganisms that support plant health, especially in compost. They act as a “green” compost material (high in nitrogen), balancing out “brown” materials like dried leaves.

3. Pest Repellent Properties

Some gardeners report that coffee grounds help deter slugs, snails, and even cats. While scientific evidence is mixed, many find it a safe and sustainable alternative to chemical deterrents.

4. Acidic or Neutral?

Contrary to popular belief, used coffee grounds are only mildly acidic—or even neutral—because most of the acidity is lost during brewing. This makes them suitable for a wider range of plants than many people think.

Top Tip: Mix grounds with other compost materials or let them dry out before applying

to avoid mould. Avoid dumping large amounts straight on your soil, as it can compact and restrict water flow.

Brew Well, Live Well

At The Pear Tree Pantry, we take pride in serving coffee that’s as good for you as it is for the planet. From a mental pick-me-up to a garden perk-me-up, proper coffee proves it’s more than just a beverage—it’s a sustainable lifestyle choice. Feel free to do your own research on any of the above topics or facts.