Pre-workout caffeine: Organic Versus Non-organic Coffee
Organic coffee is advertised all over the place and many of us who live an active lifestyle will have a cup as a pre-workout alternative and to receive a dose of caffeine. Seeing so many options out there in various different forms can be overwhelming to make a decision on which to consume on a daily basis.
So what exactly does this mean and why should we care if we drink organic or non-organic coffee? Does drinking non-organic coffee have any side effects? Well, let us tell you! In this blog, we cover the major difference between organic and non-organic coffee and their potential health benefits and pitfalls.
What Does Organic Coffee Mean?
The simple explanation of why something can be deemed organic is when it has been grown without the use of chemical-based fertilizers, synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms (G.M.O.s). Organic coffee usually comes from a farm that focuses on sustainable and renewable practices and limits exposure to chemicals.
In today’s world, it has become harder and harder to purchase things that have not been touched by pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc. This is why organic products have become increasingly popular as many are looking to eat cleaner.
But how do we know if foods that are labeled organic, are actually organic? Check for the USDA's official organic seal which is green and white. If the product says it’s organic without the green and white label it probably contains a mixture of organic and non-organic ingredients or came from a farm that has not been officially deemed organic by the USDA. Some farms are indeed organic without the label so if you’re shopping locally you should ask the farmer about their practices.
The Benefits Of Drinking Organic Coffee
There are over 200 pesticides that are used on non-organic coffee crops, making coffee one of the most heavily treated crops in the world. These chemicals are not only threatening the environment but the farmer’s health and the health of those who ingest the different chemicals.
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Organic Is Healthier To Drink
Unfortunately, only 3% of coffee beans around the world are made without the use of harsh pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other chemicals.
It was said for a long time that the roasting process of the coffee bean destroyed any remnants of chemicals and pesticides. But we now know that there can be chemical residue left in the bean even after roasting. This residue can still show up in our morning brew, so many people all around the world are starting their day off with a cup full of chemicals, including:
- Ochratoxin A
- Acrylamide
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
- Yeast
- Pesticides
While the research surrounding the potential health risks of chemicals and pesticides is ongoing, it is being found that they might be triggering different health conditions. Some say these chemicals can cause fatigue, brain fog, and decrease in energy and focus which is the exact opposite of what we want from our pre-workout caffeine or energy supplement.
We’re not saying that regular, non-organic coffee is ‘unhealthy’, but limiting the number of chemicals entering our body always sounds great to us. The best pre-workout alternative, Aila supplements, has a mixture of either matcha or peach drink combined with organic coffee. You still get that jolt you crave but avoid the caffeine crash.
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Organic Is Healthier To Grow
Many coffee farms are located in areas all over the world where the farmers are less likely to be well-informed about all of the potential dangers of working closely with these chemicals. These coffee growers are exposed to all sorts of chemicals on a daily basis, and may not be supplied with the necessary protective gear. A recent survey of coffee farmers in Eastern Jamaica found that 81 of them suffered from a health condition linked to pesticide handling.
So organic farms are not only protecting the natural ecosystem in which they operate, but are also creating a healthier, safer working environment for their farmers.
3. Organic Is Better For Our Environment
Organic coffee means that no synthetic fertilizers or chemicals are used in the growing of the coffee beans, or the production of the coffee. When farmers are not using any toxic chemicals they usually have to begin using more sustainable practices for successful crops. These practices end up significantly improving the soil blend of nutrients. An additional perk of organic coffee grown in healthy diverse soil, and lack of chemicals, is that the beans stay rich in antioxidants.
Many organic farms also use trees to shade the crops instead of using pesticides for coffee bean preservation. More trees help combat the issue of deforestation as well as climate change by emitting less carbon dioxide than conventional, non-organic farms. Using a natural lush landscape, or planting additional trees also offers homes to wild plants and animals.
Aila is so proud to use organic coffee in our energy supplement blends. We love knowing exactly what we are fueling our body with, and we think you will too! Our natural pre workout products will result in increased energy levels. Check out all of our products and reduce your chemical consumption. Have questions? Feel free to use our contact page, we are happy to help.
