Tidbits

A  recent study at Canada's Laval  University found that combining coffees caffeine and pepper's capsaicin revs calorie burn by 25%-an effect that causes the body to melt more fat for up to three hours. In fact, researches say that consuming two cups of coffee and two chopped chile pepper daily can nix four pounds every week. 

Whether you prefer it piping hot or cold, coffee helps you power through the busiest of days. But there's another reason to love this energizing brew: Coffee i the key to slimming down while till enjoying decadent summer sweets. That's because its caffeine induces thermogenesis, a heat-producing process that jump-starts metabolism-resulting in 44 percent greater fat burn for up to three hours, according to Swiss scientist. Plus, caffeine has been shown to diminish cravings for sweet and salty snacks by regulating the output of the hunger-causing neurotransmitter corticotropin-releasing hormone, so you'll feel satisfied without overindulging.

Keeping you svelte: Its riche stores of antioxidant polyphenols are proven to reduce diabetes risk by 30 percent; protect against heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's disease and cancer; and neutralize the free radicals that cause skin to age. best of all, coffee's robust aroma and flavor are a classic match or scrumptious sweet treats, so you can enjoy all the healthful perks even if you're not a coffee drinker.

Coffee and to slightly lesser extent, black tea is rich in phenols, plant compounds that help improve the body's sensitivity to insulin within an hour of drinking the brew, according to a study led by P. R. Martin, M.D., a professor of psychiatry and pharmacology at the Vanderbit University Medic al Center in Nashville. The result: balanced blood sugar and a steady stream of energy. To reap the maximum benefit, drink your coffee bout 20 minutes before eating breakfast. dR. Martin notes, 'An empty stomach optimizes the body's absorption of phenolic compounds.'

Both caffeine and exercise also decrease tissue fat, which research shows helps cells deconstruct. Caffeine inhibits ATR-1, a genetic pathway that prevents damaged  cells from self-destructing.