What’s a coffee nap?

Latest viral trend might actually have health benefits

Several Cups of Coffee Daily , Is Linked to Longevity, , New Study Finds.The study was conducted by European researchers and recently published in the 'European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.'.The wide-ranging study considered the coffee drinking habits of nearly half-a-million people.It found that the health benefits of coffee exist in its multiple forms, including decaf.Ground, instant and decaffeinated coffee were associated with equivalent reductions in the incidence of cardiovascular disease ... , Peter Kistler, Study Author, via CBS News.... and death from cardiovascular disease or any cause, Peter Kistler, Study Author, via CBS News.According to the authors of the study, the findings indicate coffee intake is one component of a healthy lifestyle.The results suggest that mild to moderate intake of ground, instant and decaffeinated coffee should be considered part of a healthy lifestyle, Peter Kistler, Study Author, via CBS News.The research was conducted over a span of nearly 13 years.It found that those who drank two to three cups of ground coffee had a 20 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease.Instant coffee drinkers had a nine percent lower risk and decaf drinkers had a six percent lower risk.It is likely that the non-caffeinated compounds were responsible for the positive relationships observed between coffee drinking, cardiovascular disease and survival, Peter Kistler, Study Author, via CBS News.According to the author, more than 100 biologically active elements exist within coffee.Our findings indicate that drinking modest amounts of coffee of all types should not be discouraged but can be enjoyed as a heart healthy behavior, Peter Kistler, Study Author, via CBS News.The study adds to the growing amount of research that has reached similar conclusions about the health benefits of coffee

Could a cup of Joe be the missing link between you and a great nap?

While coffee is best known for waking us up, elevating alertness and giving us an extra burst of energy. But could it be an excellent aid for a refreshing nap? That’s what author Daniel H. Pink argues.

Pink coined the term “nappuccino” to highlight the importance of a cup of coffee in his 5-step guide for having a perfect nap. According to Pink, to get the most out of a nap, which experts agree improves cognitive performance and boosts mental and physical health, you should:

  • Finding your afternoon low point
  • Creating a peaceful environment
  • Drinking a cup of coffee
  • Setting a timer for 25 minutes
  • Repeat (daily or a few times a week)

“It might seem counterintuitive to combine caffeine with sleep. But caffeine followed by a brief nap has been shown to improve alertness and mental acuity in several studies,” explained Jay Summer of the Sleep Foundation.

While coffee naps may be beneficial, they should be taken in moderation — as should the amount of caffeine consumed daily. The FDA recommends consuming no more than 400 milligrams per day.