Coffee
Coffee is a beverage, prepared from the seeds of the coffee tree. The best known brands come from the Island of Java, Mocha, Rio de Janeiro, and Mexico.
Coffee is not a food. The active principle is caffein. This is an alkaloid and is a strong stimulant to the central nervous system. It quickens the heart action, and, unless the heart be weak, one does not need so strong a stimulant. The stimulating effect is so apparent with many, that they cannot sleep for several hours after drinking it. Others drink coffee to quicken mental activity and to keep them awake.
It must be borne in mind, however, that there is a reactionary effect from all stimulants, and while coffee is not intoxicating, as alcohol, it has a similar effect upon the nerves and heart. It is given to those addicted to liquor, as a milder stimulant, when they are recovering from a spell of intoxication.
Whether because of the strong stimulant, or because of some chemical effect of caffein, coffee retards digestion, especially when the digestive organs are weak. It has the redeeming feature, of having a pleasing aroma, which, because of the effect upon the mind, may incite the flow of gastric juice; but, despite the fact that no morning beverage has quite the same pleasing aroma, or pungency, as coffee, one is much better without it.
One who knows that coffee disturbs his digestion and yet cannot break himself from the habit of drinking it, should have sympathy for the one who is addicted to liquor and finds it difficult to break the habit of depending upon this so-called stimulant.
Cereal Coffee has been discussed under the heading “Cereals.”
Cocoa and Chocolate