A new study shows that drinking coffee in moderation is healthy and protects against cardiovascular disease and stroke. The study authors assessed themoderate coffee consumptionin a population without diagnosed heart disease. The study results suggest that regular coffee consumption is safe for cardiovascular health. Even high daily intake was not associated with adverse cardiovascular problems and all-cause mortality after 10 to 15 years of follow-up.
How drinking coffee can be healthy for the cardiovascular system
Although coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, little is known about the long-term effects of regular consumption on cardiovascular health. According to the researchers, 0.5 to 3 cups of coffee per day are associated with a lower risk of stroke or cardiovascular disease. This study examined the connection between usual coffee consumption, heart attack, stroke and death. This involved 468,629 participants who had no signs of heart disease at the time of recruitment. The average age was 56.2 years, with 55.8% of the subjects being women. Compared to non-coffee drinkers, light to moderate consumption was associated with a 12% lower risk of all-cause death and a 17% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. To investigate the possible underlying mechanisms, researchers analyzed the relationship between daily coffee intake and heart structure.
The study authors used data from 30,650 participants who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This was therefore considered the gold standard for assessing cardiac structure and function. Researchers estimated the association of daily coffee consumption with incident outcomes over a median follow-up of 11 years. Imaging analysis showed that daily consumers had healthier and better-functioning hearts compared to participants who didn't drink coffee regularly. This was also consistent with reversing the detrimental effects of aging on the heart. The results suggest that coffee consumption of up to 3 cups per day is associated with favorable cardiovascular benefits. However, further research is needed to explain the underlying mechanisms. Nevertheless, the authors couldthis studyexplain the observed benefits in part by positive changes in cardiac structure and function.
