What Are Coffee Beans? The coffee beans that are used to brew coffee are actually the seeds of a fruit known as the coffee cherry. The coffee plant is perennial, which means that it will come back each year. Coffee beans have high levels of specific compounds - including caffeine, which is why they should be consumed in moderation. Find out more about this well-known seed! Origin The seeds of the coffee plant are used to create coffee, a beverage that is brewed. The beans are a popular and profitable international commodity. Coffee plants are woody, evergreen plants that flourish in the tropics. The Bean Belt includes the areas close to the Tropic of Cancer, and the Tropic of Capricorn. The most popular legend of coffee's genesis is that of a goat herder named Kaldi in Ethiopia. He observed that his flock became especially active after eating the bright red berries from certain coffee plants. Kaldi shared his findings with the abbot of a nearby monastery, who came up with a drink made from the berries. The energy-boosting effect of the berries was spread. Currently, coffee beans are produced by two major varieties of Coffea plants: Arabica and Robusta. The latter is primarily found in Africa and Indonesia and is generally less expensive than arabica. There are many smaller varieties that are a blend of arabica & robusta. These beans are referred to as peaberries and are more flavorful than standard beans. During the process of roasting beans lose their moisture which could result in them becoming bitter and stale. It is important to only make use of fresh, high-quality beans for your coffee. Flavor The four components of flavor- acidity, bitterness, sweetness, and saltinessare influenced by variety of beans, the climate, and the method of processing. These elements can be combined in a variety of ways to create different flavor profiles that range from sweet and fruity to nutty or even smoky. When coffee beans are heated they react with the amino acids in their seeds and produce hundreds of unique aromatic compounds that alter the taste of the beans. This reaction is known as the Maillard Reaction, and it occurs in nearly all cooking. The aroma of beans roasted reflects these compounds. The Maillard Reaction is responsible for the overall flavor, however volatile and nonvolatile compounds also play a role in the taste of coffee. Unroasted or green beans may possess a flavor that is earthy, floral or fruity. Bitterness is often associated with full-bodied roasts containing more caffeine. However, it can also be due to improper processing or storage. Flavored coffee beans are coated with flavor oils that aid in preserve the beans while adding a specific aroma and taste. The flavored oils are a mixture of natural and chemical flavors that can include everything from vanilla to cinnamon to chocolate. The flavors stick to the beans using an extremely chemical compound known as polyphenol. Health Benefits Coffee beans are a good source of potassium, magnesium and B vitamins. They also provide a valuable source of antioxidants to help fight the oxidative stress (which can cause chronic diseases such as cancer and atherosclerosis). The antioxidant chlorogenic acid that is found in coffee beans is especially effective against obesity-related illnesses such as the high cholesterol level and diabetes. Coffee is a natural energy booster that helps people feel more alert. The caffeine in it stimulates neurochemicals in the brain, which enhance the vigilance and memory, improves cognitive function and helps to regulate blood sugar levels within the body. Studies have shown that moderate consumption of coffee can reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease and dementia, and also improve mood, contentment energy, and concentration. Anti-aging: The antioxidants (including caffeine and the chlorogenic acids) in coffee serve as an natural moisturizer for skin, increasing cell turnover, which reduces wrinkles and fine lines. They also possess UV-protection properties which block light and prevent sun-induced damage to the skin. Anti-depressant: Coffee beans can be used as an antidepressant, boosting serotonin and dopamine in the brain to increase the level of happy hormones. It also helps relieve inflammation and pain and inflammation, acting as a natural sedative and improving the effectiveness of pain killers. Cafestol and Kahweol are diterpene-based compounds that have lipolytic qualities. They can help reduce cellulite. Caffeine Coffee is among the most popular drinks around the world and has become integral to the routine of many mornings. Coffee beans are the seeds of the coffee plant or coffee cherry. They contain caffeine, a natural stimulant. The amount of caffeine in coffee can vary depending on how it is roasted, prepared and brewed. There are a few rules that can help you choose the right coffee. The average coffee bean contains about 2 milligrams of caffeine, however the exact amount varies dependent on the size of the bean and how darkly roasted it is. There is a widespread misconception that coffee beans that are darker roasted contain more caffeine than lighter-roasted ones. It's not the case. Dark roast coffee beans contain less caffeine than light roasts because of their smaller density. However the amount of caffeine is similar. The daily limit recommended for caffeine is 400 milligrams. https://www.coffeee.uk/categories/coffee-beans of coffee is 95 milligrams. If you are not sensitive to caffeine, staying within this range isn't likely to cause any adverse consequences. For those who aren't sensitive to caffeine may enjoy their coffee, however it is important to be aware of how much caffeine you're taking in and to avoid overdoing it.