If you're a coffee lover, I have great news. Your morning cup just might extend your life and reduce your risk for disease.
After decades of research on coffee and health, AARP and the National Institutes of Health paired up to conduct the largest study ever done on Americans' favorite beverage.
Their research was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. And not only did the study show that drinking coffee isn't harmful to your health, it showed that this supposedly "guilty pleasure" is actually associated with a lower risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke... and a longer lifespan.
So what is coffee's secret to health and longevity?
A Thousand Disease-Fighters in Your Morning Java
Well, it's not the caffeine. In fact, researchers found the same benefits for decaf as they did for regular coffee.
Since coffee is Americans' top source of antioxidant's (yes, it's true) and contains literally thousands of phytonutrients, scientists can't single out just one "silver bullet". Like many other foods, the bioactive compounds in coffee probably work in synergy.
But like any observational study, the other habits of the coffee drinkers must be considered.
Habits and Health of Half a Million
Of the total participants in the study, approximately 42,000 abstained from drinking coffee. About 15,000 participants drank six cups or more per day, while most people enjoyed an average of about two cups.
At the end of the study, researchers found that compared to those who drank no coffee, the men who consumed two or three cups a day were 10 percent less likely to die at any age. For women, it was 13 percent.
The coffee drinkers were also less likely to die from heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and diabetes. Even one cup of coffee per day appeared to reduce risk slightly.
And because the study involved so many people (402,260) and included more than ten years of follow up, researchers feel the evidence is solid. Dr. Frank Hu of the Harvard School of Public Health commented: "This is probably the best evidence we have."
If you still need reassurance that your morning (and afternoon) coffee really is a healthy indulgence, you'll be happy to know that previous studies also link coffee consumption to improved insulin sensitivity, enhanced physical endurance, reduced inflammation levels, as well as a reduced risk of certain cancers, gout, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
It's important to note, however, for people who have existing heart disease that excess caffeine can raise blood pressure to unsafe levels.
Picking Better Beans
Now that you know that your coffee habit can actually help your health, here are a few very important ways to maximize the benefits of your java... and ensure that you are not turning a health-enhancing beverage into one that is harmful.
Go Organic: Conventionally grown coffee is often sprayed heavily with pesticides. So choose an organic variety. Not only is it higher in antioxidants, but it is free from chemical contaminants.
Sweeten Safely: Adding sugar or flavored syrups to your coffee not only adds calories, it boosts blood sugar and insulin levels. Sweeten with zero-calorie, zero-glycemic stevia and/or erythritol instead.
Opt for REAL Cream: If you like your coffee with cream, be sure to choose organic cream from grass-fed cows. And NEVER use imitation creamer, like Coffee Mate or Cremora. These products are made with hydrogenated oils - or trans fats - which strongly promote heart disease and diabetes.
The Institute of Medicine has stated that there is "no safe level" of trans fat to consume. That means not even a daily teaspoon. If you like creamy coffee but don't want to use dairy, try full-fat coconut milk (We recommend Native Forest Organic Coconut Milk).
Consider Cold Brewing: Cold-brewing creates coffee with up to 70% less acid than conventional hot-brew methods. The result: bold, smooth, sweet flavor. Cold brewing can slash the acid so significantly that even sufferers from acid indigestion and other digestive ails can enjoy a morning cup without discomfort.
No Plastic: Brewing coffee in traditional coffee makers can expose hot liquids to plastics that contain BPA, phthalates and other chemicals. These harmful endocrine disruptors can leach into your coffee. For the same reason, be sure to choose metal or porcelain travel mugs.
Coffee can be a healthy way to start your day. Just be sure to follow the recommendations above to enjoy your morning cup guilt-free. In fact, it just might add some healthy years to your life!
To Your Healthy Longevity,
Kelley Herring
Editor & CEO
Healing Gourmet
