Does coffee save you from an early death? Research published in October 2024 suggests coffee may be more than a stimulant. Regular consumption appears to cut the risk of premature death by as much as 18 per cent, but only the right coffee works that way, so read on. The finding matters most in the context of chronic disease: cancer, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
Read also: Is coffee healthy? Facts and myths
The key lies in the polyphenols coffee contains, chlorogenic acid among them, which protects DNA strands from damage and mutation. That may translate into a lower risk of cancer. Coffee also improves metabolism, with a positive effect on the nervous system, and reduces some symptoms of neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.
Light roast coffee: the healthier choice
In the specialty coffee world, light roast coffee stands out for more than taste. Roasting gently keeps most of the valuable antioxidants in the bean, polyphenols included, and those compounds are what give the drink its health effect.
Why choose a light roast?
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More antioxidants: light roast coffee holds the highest level of compounds that protect the body against oxidative stress. They work as a natural shield against free radicals.
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Subtle tasting notes: a light roast lets the natural flavours of the bean come through, from fruit to floral, depending on the origin. It is the obvious choice if you want a coffee with real character.
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Support for your health: studies suggest light roast coffee may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and support the body’s own repair processes.
How to brew a light roast
Filter methods suit it best, whether that is a pour-over, a Chemex or an AeroPress, because they draw out the full range of aromas. Get the coffee to water ratio right and use water with a neutral pH, so nothing interferes with the natural tasting notes.
Coffee and men’s health
Coffee may also improve quality of life where sexual health is concerned. Studies indicate that drinking 2 to 3 cups a day reduces the risk of erectile dysfunction in men with high blood pressure and obesity. Experts suggest pairing coffee with maca root for extra support. Maca root, known for its adaptogenic properties, reinforces the effect of coffee, supporting vascular health and general wellbeing.
Coffee and weight loss
For anyone managing their weight, coffee can be an ally. It reduces appetite and supports weight loss, which numerous studies confirm. Drinking it regularly may lead to a reduction in body fat, though it is only one element of a healthy lifestyle. The caffeine in coffee speeds up metabolism, which makes burning calories easier, particularly alongside physical activity.
Coffee also works as a natural appetite regulator, helping to control snacking between meals. Bear in mind, though, that additions such as sugar or syrups can cancel out its health properties, so coffee is best taken without them.
Coffee and neurodegenerative disease
Coffee consumption also affects brain health. In Parkinson’s disease, caffeine and chlorogenic acid may slow progression in the early stages. Studies indicate coffee may also improve concentration, reduce the risk of depression and support memory later in life.
In summary: a coffee that protects and delights
Coffee is more than a morning routine. Choose light roasted beans and you get both a rich cup and support for your health on several fronts, from protecting DNA to helping your metabolism and your nervous system. Try different origins and find the coffee that becomes your daily ally.
References
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Cheng, H. M., Wong, T. Y., Lee, J. K., Chan, C. Y., & Lam, K. S. (2024). Phenome-Wide Analysis of Coffee Intake on Health over 20 Years of Follow-Up Among Adults in Hong Kong Osteoporosis Study. Nutrients, 16(10), 3536.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39458530/
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Freedman, N. D., Park, Y., Abnet, C. C., Hollenbeck, A. R., & Sinha, R. (2012). Association of coffee drinking with total and cause-specific mortality. New England Journal of Medicine, 366(20), 1891-1904. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22591295/
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Gunter, M. J., Murphy, N., Cross, A. J., Dossus, L., Dartois, L., Fagherazzi, G., & Riboli, E. (2017). Coffee drinking and mortality in 10 European countries: A multinational cohort study. Annals of Internal Medicine, 167(4), 236-247. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28693038/
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Poole, R., Kennedy, O. J., Roderick, P., Fallowfield, J. A., Hayes, P. C., & Parkes, J. (2017). Coffee consumption and health: umbrella review of meta-analyses of multiple health outcomes. BMJ, 359, j5024 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29167102/
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Grosso, G., Micek, A., Godos, J., Pajak, A., Sciacca, S., Galvano, F., & Giovannucci, E. L. (2017). Coffee consumption and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality in smokers and nonsmokers: a dose-response meta-analysis. European Journal of Epidemiology, 32(4), 331-341. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27699514/
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Bhupathiraju, S. N., Pan, A., Manson, J. E., Willett, W. C., van Dam, R. M., & Hu, F. B. (2013). Coffee consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Diabetologia, 56(5), 929-941 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24459154/
