A new large-scale study has identified the optimal daily coffee intake that may significantly reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death and all-cause mortality. According to researchers from Tufts University, consuming one to three cups of black coffee per day is associated with up to a 17% lower risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular causes.
☕ The Sweet Spot: 1–3 Cups Daily
The study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, tracked over 46,000 adults aged 20 and above for 11 years. Key findings include:
- One cup of black coffee daily reduced the risk of death by 16%
- Two to three cups offered the maximum benefit, lowering risk by 17%
- More than three cups showed no additional advantage
Importantly, the benefits were only observed in black coffee or coffee with minimal sugar and saturated fat.
🚫 Additives May Cancel Benefits
Researchers warned that excessive sugar and cream could negate coffee’s protective effects.
“The health benefits of coffee might be due to its bioactive compounds, but our results suggest that adding sugar and saturated fat may take away these benefits,” said lead author Prof. Fang Fang Zhang.
🧬 Why Coffee Helps
Coffee contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may improve heart health, reduce arterial stiffness, and enhance metabolic function.
⚠️ Limitations and Cautions
While the findings are promising, the study was observational and based on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. Researchers also noted that roast type and brewing methods were not factored in.
Stay tuned for more health science updates.
