New studies pursue 'perfect' blend for coffee and health
Recent studies clarify the health effects of coffee, suggesting that moderate caffeine intake, especially through coffee, may lower risks of type-2 diabetes, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. However, high doses from energy drinks can harm cardiovascular health, and unfiltered coffee may raise LDL cholesterol. Drinking hot black coffee with minimal additives is recommended. Research also highlights the benefits of adding chicory to coffee, which contains antioxidants and supports digestion, with optimal blends of 70:30 or 60:40 coffee to chicory suggested for balanced taste and health benefits.
Key Points
- Moderate caffeine intake from coffee is linked to lower risks of type-2 diabetes, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation.
- High doses of caffeine, particularly from energy drinks, can harm cardiovascular health, and unfiltered coffee may increase LDL cholesterol.
- Drinking hot black coffee with little or no sugar or milk is generally recommended.
- Adding chicory to coffee offers health benefits like liver protection and improved digestion, while also enhancing taste.
- Optimal coffee-to-chicory blend ratios of 70:30 or 60:40 are suggested for balancing taste and health benefits.
Exam Facts
- The American Heart Association published a scientific statement titled 'Caffeine and Cardiovascular Disease'.
- Data from the Nurses' Health Study and U.K. Biobank suggest four cups a day may lower cancer and type-2 diabetes risks.
- A 2023 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Science by a Copenhagen group discussed milk's benefits in coffee.
- Pushpa S. Murthy's group at the Central Food Technology and Research Institute, Mysuru, reviewed coffee and chicory blends.
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