Coffee Drinkers At Decreased Risk Of Early Mortality

Previous studies have boasted the benefits of drinking coffee. Now, a 10-year U.S. study on regular coffee drinkers reminds us, again, of its benefits. (And yes, caffeine-free coffee drinkers, this benefits you, too.)

Researchers found that people who drank four to five cups of coffee every day were at a decreased risk of early mortality. Furthermore, study results suggested that they were at a reduced risk of premature death from chronic respiratory diseases, pneumonia, influenza, diabetes and even suicide, according to The Daily Mail.

"Coffee contains numerous biologically active compounds, including phenolic acids, potassium, and caffeine," said lead author Dr. Erikka Loftfield of the National Cancer Institute in Rockville, Maryland, via Reuters.

During the study, researchers examined data from a previous study on 90,317 adults without cancer or with a history of cardiovascular disease who were followed from 1998 through 2009. They reported their coffee intake and dietary habits at the beginning of the study.

At the end of the study, 8,700 people have died. However, after accounting for other risk factors, including smoking, etc., researchers found that coffee drinkers were less likely to have died during the study than counterparts who did not drink coffee.

Those who drank four to five cups of coffee a day (including decaffeinated coffee drinkers) were at the lowest risk for early mortality. Those who drank two to three cups a day had an 18 percent lower death risk than counterparts. However, researchers noted that the study does not suggest that drinking coffee extends life, but that it may carry an effect on factors related to inflammation or cardiovascular health.

Health officials have certainly come a long way regarding their initial beliefs on coffee, which was originally blamed for stunting growth and even causing heart disease and cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. While coffee may be healthy--in moderation of course--it's important to consider that adding excess cream and sugar to the drink can quickly mask many of its benefits.

The findings are published in the American Journal of Epidemiology.

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