A new study from Tufts University suggests that regular black coffee consumption may reduce the risk of death from all causes. However, the benefits of the drink disappear when cream, milk or sugar are added.
"Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. With nearly half of American adults drinking at least one cup per day, it is important to understand the impact it may have on health ," said study author Fang Fang Zhang, an epidemiologist.
Researchers analyzed data from more than 46,000 adults between 1999 and 2018 and compared it with the National Death Index. They found that drinking at least one cup of caffeinated coffee a day reduced the risk of death by 16%, and drinking two to three cups a day reduced the risk by 17%. However, drinking more than three cups a day did not provide any additional benefit and may even negate the positive effect in the case of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers paid particular attention to the way coffee was consumed. The benefits of the drink were maintained if it was kept black or contained minimal amounts of sugar and dairy. However, large amounts of sugar and cream nullified the effect and did not reduce the risk of premature death.
Study author Binji Zhou emphasized: "Our results are consistent with dietary recommendations that advise limiting added sugar and saturated fat .
The study has some limitations, as the data is based on self-reports from participants. However, the findings already support the idea that a cup of black coffee every day may be beneficial for longevity.
