Coffee Leads to Immortality?! Study Outlines Longevity Benefits of Coffee

If the findings of a recent study are correct, then drinking coffee could help you live longer. The study is just 1 of about a 100 studies (well … a lot) outlining the numerous health benefits of coffee, ranging from aiding in cancer prevention to improving focus and concentration. Now you can enjoy your coffee with the expectation of doing so long into old age!

Researchers studied half a million people aged 38 to 73 across the United Kingdom (U.K.) who said they drank between 1 and 8 cups of coffee a day. According to Erikka Loftfield, a research fellow at the National Cancer Institute, it was found “that people who drank 2 to 3 cups per day had about a 12% lower risk of death compared to non-coffee drinkers” during the decade-long study. [1]

Participants who drank 2-3 cups of coffee a day lived longer, regardless of what kind of coffee they drank. Even decaffeinated coffee appeared to extend longevity. [2]

People who drank more than 8 cups of coffee a day – basically a pot – were also less likely to die, on average, compared to non-drinkers.

The study subjects were mostly British and have different coffee-drinking habits compared to much of the rest of the world, such as drinking primarily instant coffee. Many of them didn’t lead the healthiest lifestyle, either.

The study authors wrote:

“Coffee drinkers, compared with non–coffee drinkers, were more likely to be male, white, former smokers, and drink alcohol.

Participants drinking four or more cups per day, compared with those drinking less coffee and nondrinkers, were more likely to drink instant coffee and be current smokers, whereas participants drinking one to three cups per day were older, more likely to have a university degree, and more likely to report ‘excellent’ health.”

In the past, heavy coffee-drinking was believed to be bad for cardiac health, particularly among those with a certain gene mutation. However, the analysis found no extra risk for any gene variant.

Although the study shows only an association, not causation, drinking coffee is associated with numerous health benefits, and the beverage is the #1 source of antioxidants in the American diet.

Previous studies also show that coffee may cut the risk of Type 2 diabetes, and can reduce your risk of developing various cancers. In one study, consuming a single cup of joe each day reduced the risk by an astounding 92%.

Whether you enjoy a single cup or many cups throughout the day, drinking coffee is likely reducing your risk of something.

Sources:

[1] USA Today

[2] NBC News