Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, with millions of people depending on it to kick start their day and keep them alert throughout the day.
However, some people believe that coffee is bad for their health, while others are convinced otherwise.
In recent years, there have been numerous studies on the health benefits and risks of coffee consumption, with many focusing on its link to death risk.
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind coffee and death risk and what it means for coffee lovers.
What is Coffee?
Coffee is a beverage that is brewed from roasted coffee beans, which are the seeds of the Coffea plant. It is a stimulant due to its high caffeine content, which makes it one of the most widely consumed psychoactive substances in the world.
However, coffee contains much more than just caffeine. It also has various other compounds, including antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
Coffee and Health
The health effects of coffee have been a topic of debate. Some people claim that coffee has many health benefits, while others believe that it has more negative effects than positive ones.
However, there are many studies that have shown that moderate coffee consumption can have several health benefits, including:.
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
- Reduced risk of liver cancer
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease
While coffee has many health benefits, excessive consumption can be harmful. Too much coffee can lead to disrupted sleep patterns, increased heart rate, and even anxiety.
Coffee and Death Risk
One of the most controversial health claims about coffee is its link to death risk.
Some studies have suggested that coffee consumption can increase the risk of death, while others have found an inverse relationship between coffee consumption and death risk.
One study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2012 suggested that coffee consumption was inversely associated with death risk, especially among individuals who drank two to three cups per day.
The study found that the risk of death was 10% lower among coffee drinkers compared to non-coffee drinkers.
However, another study published in the same journal in 2018 suggested that drinking more than six cups of coffee per day was associated with higher death risk.
The study found that individuals who drank six or more cups of coffee per day had a 16% higher risk of death than those who didn’t drink coffee.
While these studies show different associations between coffee consumption and death risk, it is important to note that correlation doesn’t necessarily mean causation.
In other words, it is not clear whether coffee consumption directly causes death or whether other factors are at play. More research is needed to clarify the link between coffee and death risk.
The Bottom Line
While it is clear that coffee has several health benefits, excessive consumption can be harmful. It is also still unclear whether coffee consumption directly causes death or whether other factors are at play.
If you are a coffee lover, the key is to drink it in moderation. Avoid drinking too much coffee, especially later in the day, as it can disrupt your sleep patterns and cause other health problems.