Do You Know That Drinking Coffee Can Reduce the Risk of Clogged Arteries?
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to discover the findings of a recent study published in the journal Heart. The study indicates that individuals who consume an average of 3-5 cups of coffee daily may experience a significant reduction in the risk of atherosclerosis, characterized by plaque build-up in the arteries, leading to a lower risk of heart attacks.
Coffee, containing over 1,000 chemicals, including antioxidants, is believed to contribute to these health benefits. Part of this positive impact arises from coffee’s ability to enhance insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, consequently lowering the risk of type 2 diabetesa significant factor in the development of clogged arteries.
The research involved more than 25,000 Korean men and women with an average age of 41, showing no symptoms of heart disease. Participants were categorized based on their daily coffee consumption: none, less than one cup, three to five cups, and five or more cups.
During yearly health exams, participants reported their dietary habits, and CT scans were conducted to assess calcium build-up in their heart arteries. The results were then compared with the amount of coffee consumed by each participant.
Researchers discovered that the group consuming three to five cups daily had the lowest presence of coronary artery calcium (CAC), an early indicator of atherosclerosis and heart disease. Positive results were also observed in those drinking 1-3 cups, showing less calcium build-up compared to non-coffee drinkers. Notably, as coffee consumption increased, the amount of calcium build-up decreased, with those consuming three to five cups per day exhibiting the least calcium build-up.
While the study focused on individuals in South Korea, Dr. Eliseo Guallar, a co-author from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, anticipates similar findings for American coffee drinkers. While the study doesn’t establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between coffee and reduced arterial calcium, the association between the two is notably strong.
For non-coffee drinkers, researchers suggest there’s no need to start, as the most significant findings were observed in those consuming 3-5 cups daily. Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of what is added to coffee, as ingredients like creamers, whipped cream, and excessive sugar may not be beneficial to overall health.
In conclusion, enjoy your cup of “joe”it may be even better for you than you thought!