How many times have you read that you should quit drinking coffee? Well, a new study suggests that coffee may actually be good for you...
I just read a report from the European Society of Cardiology about a study on coffee consumption done in Spain looking at the association between coffee consumption and the risk of dying in middle-aged Mediterraneans. Researchers surveyed the amount of coffee 20,000 people drank along with other lifestyle, social and demographic characteristics and previous health conditions. Then they followed them for an average of 10 years.
Here’s what they found…
People who drank at least four cups of coffee per day had a 64% lower risk of dying from any cause (“all-cause mortality”) than those who never or almost never drank coffee over the 10 years of follow-up.
There was a 22% lower risk of all-cause mortality for each two additional cups of coffee per day.
In those who were at least 45 years old, drinking two additional cups of coffee per day was associated with a 30% lower risk of dying during follow-up.
Very interesting, isn’t it! The researchers didn’t offer any explanation for why coffee might have this effect but here’s my theory (for what it’s worth) …
I rather doubt that it’s anything particular in the coffee (or tea for that matter, for tea enthusiasts), but more likely it’s what we do most of the time when we have a coffee: we take a break, relax, maybe chat with a friend or read a magazine. That has to help reduce our stress, and stress (I hear) is suspected as being an underlying cause of many health conditions! Coffee is often a social drink – recent studies also suggest that socialization is also good for our health and longevity, so that may be part of the effect too,.
I base my humble opinion on theories why the French have lower rates of heart disease that North Americans in spite of the rich higher-fat diet they consume... Some experts propose that it's not so much what you eat, but how much you eat and how you eat it. Consuming food in a relaxed atmosphere with good company just seems to be healthier for us.
So, meet a friend or take a break from work with a co-worker, relax, and enjoy a tasty cup of coffee. Or, if you don’t have someone available to share a cup with, simply put your feet up, contemplate all the great things in your life and maybe listen to some of your favourite music as you enjoy the wonderful taste of a fresh cup of brew! You may just be healthier for it…
Now, I guess I’ll go get myself another cup…. umm, that will be three for today so perhaps one more later… maybe an iced coffee version…
Enjoy!
Reference: Science Daily
