Coffee and health: the recognized benefits of specialty coffee

April 29, 2026Carrera Café
COFFEE & BARISTA

Coffee and health:
The recognized benefits of specialty coffee

Science confirms what coffee lovers have always known: a good cup feels good. Not just for the soul, but also for the body. Discover the verifiable benefits of specialty coffee.

ANTIOXIDANTS

Coffee, the antioxidant champion

In Western countries, coffee is one of the main sources of antioxidants in the diet, ahead of many fruits and vegetables. These molecules fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

The main antioxidants in coffee are chlorogenic acids, found in large amounts in green beans and partially preserved during light to medium roasting.

A well-extracted espresso concentrates these molecules in an optimal amount. This is one of the reasons why Italian espresso is traditionally drunk very hot, without milk, and in small quantities.

COGNITION

Caffeine and cognitive performance

Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world. Its main mechanism: blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing the feeling of fatigue and increasing alertness.

+12%
Attention
+11%
Memory
+16%
Reaction

Average improvements observed in studies on caffeine and cognitive performance.

METABOLISM

Metabolism and physical activity

Caffeine is one of the few supplements scientifically proven to improve sports performance. It increases fat oxidation, promotes endurance, and reduces the perception of effort.

✦ THE PIT STOP BEFORE EFFORT

An espresso 30 minutes before effort

Research suggests that an espresso consumed 30 to 60 minutes before exercise optimizes caffeine's effects on performance. At Carrera, our double espresso is the preferred choice of local athletes.

MOOD

Coffee and mood: the scientific link

Several epidemiological studies have shown an association between coffee consumption and a reduced risk of depression. Caffeine stimulates the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, linked to well-being.

It's no coincidence that the coffee ritual is a moment of self-reconnection in many cultures. Chemistry and pleasure come together in every cup.

SPECIALTY

Why specialty coffee makes the difference

Specialty coffee (score above 80/100 according to the SCA) retains more of its beneficial compounds. Less aggressive roasting preserves antioxidants. Precise traceability guarantees the freshness of the beans.

ON THE PODIUM

«The best coffee is the one you savor, slowly, fully.
At Carrera, every cup is designed to be exactly that.»

The Carrera team
THE BARISTA'S TIP

What dose to maximize the benefits?

Research generally agrees on 2 to 4 cups per day for a healthy person. Beyond that, benefits decrease and negative effects (anxiety, sleep disturbances) increase. Two Carrera espressos a day is the perfect duo.

YOUR DAILY DOSE

The best specialty coffee in Quebec

Carrera Café offers you espressos and lattes made with specialty beans, precisely roasted in Petit-Champlain in Quebec.

See the menu

More articles

Comments (0)

There are no comments for this item. Be the first to leave a message!

Write a comment