The most common causes of death are cardiovascular disease, cancer, injuries and accidents, chronic lower respiratory diseases, diabetes, chronic liver disease, kidney disease, and cognitive disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Coffee consumption has shown an inverse association with several of these diseases.
Cardiovascular disease
A meta-analysis of 36 prospective studies in 1.3 million people found that the risk of cardiovascular disease was lower among those who consumed 3-5 cups of coffee per day, corresponding to approximately 300 to 500 mg of caffeine per day. Coffee consumption was associated with a reduced risk of both coronary heart disease and stroke.
Cancer
A review of 11 studies found that coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of liver cancer and basal cell carcinoma of the skin. It may also help prevent colon cancer.
Injuries and Accidents
Cohort studies have shown that coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of injuries and accidents because coffee consumption increases alertness and is associated with higher mobility. The risk of injuries and accidents has been shown to be lower in both drivers (63% lower risk of collision) and the lower risk of falls (25-30%) in the elderly.
Respiratory Diseases
Several large-scale studies have shown inverse associations between coffee consumption and the risk of chronic respiratory diseases or death from respiratory diseases.
Diabetes
A meta-analysis of 30 studies showed a significant reduction (29%!) in type 2 diabetes among coffee drinkers.
Also, a meta-analysis of 10 cohort studies showed that diabetics who drink coffee have a lower risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and total cardiovascular events.
Liver disease
A recent meta-analysis found a significantly reduced risk of fibrosis among patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Kidney disease
Cohort studies have shown that drinking at least 2 cups of coffee is associated with a reduced risk of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury. They also confirmed that coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, and death from kidney disease.
Cognitive impairment
A recent meta-analysis of 33 studies showed that drinking both coffee and tea was associated with an approximately 25% lower risk of cognitive impairment.
The lowest risk of Alzheimer’s disease was observed in those who consumed approximately 2.5 cups of coffee per day.
Also, those who regularly consumed coffee/caffeine had a lower incidence of Parkinson’s disease, and Parkinson’s patients who regularly consumed coffee/caffeine had a lower rate of disease progression.
Several mechanisms may explain the observed improved health among coffee drinkers. Some of these are:
1. Glucose balancing effects, as it improves glucose tolerance.
2. Increased physical activity due to the increased ergogenic activity of the body.
3. Increased fat oxidation, especially during exercise, and a decrease in body fat composition.
4. Improved lung function, as caffeine, when metabolized, produces theophylline. Theophylline is a drug used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma.
5. Reduced inflammation, as coffee has anti-inflammatory properties due to the antioxidants it contains, such as polyphenols, which help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Hypertension
Moderate regular coffee consumption (up to three cups per day) does not negatively affect blood pressure and the cardiovascular system and may be beneficial.
Short-term increases in blood pressure may occur if large amounts of coffee are consumed.
Hydration
Caffeine intake, greater than 250 mg, may cause increased urine production. This is limited to the consumption of large doses of coffee, in populations with lower caffeine tolerance, and only when caffeine intake is not followed by exercise.
Mental and Visual Acuity
When coffee is consumed in low to moderate doses, caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, leading to increased alertness, vigilance, and attention, as well as reduced reaction time. It may also slightly enhance visual acuity.
Sleep
Because coffee increases alertness, it delays drowsiness. Coffee consumption can lead to approximately 36 to 45 minutes less sleep each day. To avoid reductions in total sleep time, coffee should be consumed at least 8.8 hours before bedtime.
In conclusion, as with almost everything related to nutrition, coffee, when consumed in moderation and adjusted to individual tolerance, is a beverage that helps and promotes our health.
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