TAKE A BREAK
The Perks and Pitfalls of Caffeine Brew-tally Honest
CHOCOLATE DREAM EQUALITY GROUNDHOG GRAMMY KING LINCOLN PIZZA ROSES SUPER BOWL VALENTINE WOMEN
Perk up, coffee lovers. We’re about to spill the beans on how the beloved brew can be a friend and foe to our mental health. Caffeine can lift our spirits, energize us, sharpen our focus, and even counteract the effects of depression. But this popular stimulant can also lead to jitters, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms if we sip too much. Grab a cup of Joe, and let’s explore the perks and pitfalls of this flavorful fuel. Buzz Behind the Boost Studies have found that moderate doses of caffeine can have perks. This naturally occurring stimulant can help with weight loss, alertness, brain function, memory, and physical performance. Caffeine can also guard against certain types of cancer, strokes, and Alzheimer’s disease. There’s even proof that coffee can reduce depression, thanks to the other acids in the drink that reduce inflamed nerve cells in the brains of people with depression. Buzz Kill Caffeine can be a needed pick-me-up, but it can also feed the grind that keeps you up at night or gives you anxiety. Tea and coffee can interfere with essential neurotransmitters like dopamine. This disruption can lead to a lack of motivation, irritability, and restlessness. Drinking too much of these fine brews can make you nervous, impact your sleep, and cause your body to go into flight or fight mode. For people who are already suffering from depression, the drink can cause your symptoms to worsen. So, as you drink your morning java, just remember to find the balance with the beans. Caffeine can be the ultimate mood booster, but too much will make you feel wired instead of wonderful!
ROAST PORK WITH SWEET POTATOES Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
Ingredients
• 3 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tsp dried sage
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • Salt and black pepper • 1 1/2 lbs pork tenderloin • 1 1/2 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed • 1 red onion, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth • 2 tsp Dijon mustard • 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, sage, garlic, salt, and black pepper, then rub mixture on pork. 3. On a baking sheet, toss sweet potatoes and red onion with 1 tbsp olive oil, cayenne, and salt and pepper. Roast for 20 minutes then set aside. 4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add remaining olive oil. When hot, add pork and sear for 5 minutes. Transfer to baking sheet with vegetables and bake for 11–13 minutes, or until pork reaches an internal temperature of 145 F. 5. Add broth to skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in Dijon, chives, and black pepper. Slice pork, drizzle with the pan sauce, and serve with sweet potatoes.
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