Chapter 1: The Bitter Preference

If you enjoy the taste of dark chocolate, you might find yourself also gravitating towards black coffee. Recent studies indicate that these inclinations may be rooted in our genetics. Research increasingly highlights the health advantages of consuming moderate amounts of black coffee. If you’re among those who drink three to five cups a day, you could be lowering your risk of developing conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.

However, it's advisable to skip the milk, sugar, and other high-calorie additives that many people often prefer.

As we delve into the latest research, we'll explore how our genetic makeup influences our choices regarding cream and sugar in coffee, as well as our chocolate preferences. By the end of this discussion, you'll understand why coffee is affectionately nicknamed a “cup of Joe.”

Coffee is a popular beverage, with over 150 million Americans partaking in this daily ritual. In fact, the developed world accounts for nearly 72% of global beverage consumption. On average, American adults consume about two cups of coffee each day, though this varies significantly depending on the type of coffee and the café. Here’s a quick overview of caffeine content by coffee type:

• Brewed coffee (8 ounces; 235 mL) — 133 mg (range 102–200)
• Instant coffee (8 ounces; 235 mL) — 93 mg (range 27–173)
• Decaffeinated coffee (8 ounces; 235 mL) — 5 mg (range 3–12)
• Espresso (1 ounce; 30 mL) — 40 mg (range 30–90)
• Decaffeinated espresso (1 ounce; 30 mL) — 4 mg

On average, men tend to drink more coffee than women in the United States, while African-Americans generally consume less than their white counterparts.

Chapter 2: The Rise of Tea

Alice Walker once remarked that for the English, tea is akin to an indoor picnic. Though tea isn’t the primary focus today, it's worth noting some intriguing statistics. Tea consumption is on the upswing in America, with the Tea Association of the USA reporting that 87% of the tea consumed is black tea, followed by 12.5% green tea, with the remaining percentage made up of oolong and herbal teas.

More than 80% of people in the United States drink tea, with millennials leading the way at over 87%. On any given day, more than half of Americans enjoy tea, particularly in the Northeast and Southern regions. Interestingly, tea is favored over coffee in various places, including Asia, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Globally, tea ranks as the second most consumed beverage after water, with tea drinkers consuming three times more than coffee drinkers.

Did you know that around 80% of tea consumed in the U.S. is iced? Not only is iced tea nearly fat-free, but it also contains no sodium, carbonation, or sugar. Tea is rich in flavonoids, which are natural compounds known for their antioxidant properties. These flavonoids help neutralize free radicals, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Chapter 3: The Genetic Connection

As Sandra Boynton humorously stated, the greatest tragedies were penned by the Greeks and Shakespeare, neither of whom had the pleasure of chocolate. If you prefer your coffee black, chances are you also lean towards dark, bitter chocolate. In a recent study published in Nature Scientific Reports, Dr. Cornelis and his team examined different types of coffee drinkers, distinguishing between those who enjoy black coffee and those who add cream and sugar.

The findings revealed that coffee enthusiasts with a genetic variant that allows for faster caffeine metabolism are more inclined to enjoy bitter, black coffee. This same genetic trait is found in individuals who prefer plain over sweetened tea, as well as those who favor dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate.

What’s particularly fascinating is that researchers suggest this preference isn’t merely about taste. Those with this genetic variant are believed to associate the bitterness of coffee and tea with the mental alertness they seek from caffeine. In essence, they’ve learned to link the bitterness of caffeine with enhanced brain function, leading them to choose dark chocolate as well.

Dark chocolate, while containing minimal caffeine, also features theobromine, a stimulant related to caffeine. High levels of theobromine may affect mood and heart rate. Researchers are eager to explore genetic influences on other bitter foods, with Dr. Cornelis noting that bitter foods are often associated with numerous health benefits.

Let's hope those who are genetically inclined to favor dark chocolate or black coffee also engage in other health-promoting behaviors.

Chapter 4: The Coffee Shop Experience

Do you have a favorite coffee shop? On my last trip to Barcelona, I sought out exceptional cafes known for their coffee and chocolate. One highly recommended spot is Granja M. Viader, a historic café that dates back to 1870. The owners display memorabilia throughout the café, and it's said that Picasso enjoyed their chocolates. Personally, I was enamored by their fresh churros. If you're feeling nostalgic, consider trying a Cacaolat, a classic refreshment.

A fun trivia question: Why is coffee sometimes referred to as “Joe”? The term dates back to the early 1900s when Joseph Daniels served as the Secretary of the U.S. Navy. A recent biography explains that Daniels sought to instill strict moral values in the Navy.

To reduce alcohol consumption among sailors, he advocated for increased coffee purchases. As a result, the beverage became associated with his name, leading people to refer to it as “a cup of Joseph Daniels,” which was eventually shortened to “a cup of Joe.”

Thank you for joining me on this exploration. Wishing you a fulfilling and health-conscious 2024!

The first video titled "Study: People who like black coffee prefer dark chocolate" delves into the connection between taste preferences and genetics.

The second video, "What's Healthier: Chocolate vs. Coffee," examines the health benefits of both beverages and their impact on well-being.

The insights shared in this blog are intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns. I cannot be held responsible for any risks or issues stemming from the information provided here.