It's National Coffee Day! Here's What You Need To Know About This Hot Drink

Coffee lovers! Today's National Coffee Day! That mean's whatever state you're in, chances are, your favorite chain restaurant is probably offering a free cup of Joe.

However, whether that's Dunkin' Donuts or McDonad's, it's important to reevaluate the pros and cons of the working person's favorite hot beverage.

Depending on who you ask, coffee may hold the reputation of being an incredibly healthy drink or an incredibly harmful one. Let's take a look and see what health officials have "brewed" up.  

On the plus side, coffee contains some essential nutrients and antioxidants. For instance, a typical 8 oz cup of coffee contains about 11 percent vitamin B2; 6 percent vitamin B5; 2 percent vitamin B1; 2 percent vitamin B1; 2 percent vitamin B 3; 1 percent Folate; 3 percent Manganese; 3 percent Manganese; 3 percent Potassium; 2 percent Magnesium and 1 percent Phosphorous.

Though this might not seem like a lot, adding a cup or two can really add a high content of antioxidants, according to Nutrition Authority, especially when the average person who only eats a few fruits and vegetables a day can get more antioxidants from drinking coffee, as well.

Previous studies have also shown that coffee can help boost brain power. The stimulant caffeine helps to block the function of an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain known as Adenosine that reduces tiredness and helps us feel more alert.

Furthermore, some studies have even shown that drinking coffee can even reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, liver disease and type 2 diabetes.

Unfortunately, excessive coffee drinking can lead to addiction, according to the Mayo Clinic. It can also cause disrupted sleep or increase the risk of anxiety in some.

If you like coffee, moderation is simply key. For those with various health conditions, talking to your doctor is also a good idea. And if you simply love the taste, but caffeine might be the problem, there's always decaf.