Coffee’s back at it again. New research is adding to the substantial list of data showing that a couple of cups of joe every day can pack a slew of health benefits.
The new work shows coffee can do a lot more than help wake you up and get you focused. It suggests that two or three cups per day is good for your heart and may lead to a longer life.
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Researchers reached their conclusion upon analyzing a huge data set of 383,000 men and women that were part of the UK Biobank. They learned that over ten years, drinking two or three cups of coffee per day lowered the risk for heart disease, stroke, dangerous heart arrhythmias, dying from heart disease, or any other cause by 10-15 percent.
These findings echo previous research that has linked coffee consumption to health and longevity. However, like those others, the study is observational and does not prove that coffee is responsible for these benefits.
Coffee has over 100 biologically active compounds that can help relieve oxidative stress and inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, boost metabolism, inhibit the guts absorption of fat, and block receptors involved with abnormal heart rhythms.
Some people with heart conditions may worry that caffeine may quicken heart rate and could trigger heart issues. But this study found that generally, that is not a worry, and that coffee’s effect is either neutral or beneficial.
But individuality varies, of course. If you have atrial fibrillation and coffee triggers it, coffee might not be the best idea for you.
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Understand your individual triggers and act accordingly.
If you don’t notice any problems when drinking coffee, then have at it! It’s likely helping.
To get the most out of your coffee, drink it black or with a little milk. Avoid loading it up with sugar, syrups, sweeteners, and cream, which are likely to wipe out any benefits while turning the coffee into an unhealthy snack.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
