Individuals who consume two cups of coffee a day are 15 per cent less likely to develop heart complications compared to those who drink more or less coffee, a new study has shown.
A team of academics has found that a stable intake of coffee each day is also linked to living longer.
During the study, the scientists examined the heart health of around 400,000 adults over the age of 50, all of whom had no previous heart problems. Each participant filled in surveys to record their daily coffee intake.
The researchers found that drinking two to three cups of coffee per day was associated with better heart health.
The participants who consumed two coffees each day were up to 15 per cent more protected from experiencing cardiovascular problems, such as an irregular heartbeat, heart failure and coronary heart disease, the research has reported.
However, the findings do show that decaf coffee did not offer the same protection as instant and ground coffee.
As part of the study, the team of researchers also assessed the heart health of people with cardiovascular disease.
They found that the participants with heart disease who consumed two to three cups of coffee a day were less likely to die than those who do not drink any cups per day, despite fears that caffeine can trigger heart complications.
Author Professor Peter Kistler said: “Our data suggest that daily coffee intake shouldn’t be discouraged, but rather included as a part of a healthy diet for people with and without heart disease.
“Our study shows that regular coffee intake is safe and could be part of a healthy diet for people with heart disease.”
According to the study, the elements inside coffee beans are associated with reduced inflammation levels and a higher metabolism – two factors that can enhance heart health.
In addition, compounds in coffee have been found to enhance insulin sensitivity and stop receptors involved with abnormal heart rhythms.
The team of scientists also discovered that drinking one coffee per day was linked to lower risks of having a stroke.
Professor Kistler said: “There is a whole range of mechanisms through which coffee may improve heart health and reduce mortality.”
