Studies have increasingly shown positive results that drinking four cups per day may help reduce cancer risk. However, there have been conflicting results on whether or not coffee is a true health beverage.
The latest research on coffee....
was published in the Journal of The National Cancer Institute this May. The research was a large, ten year study following over 40,000 men and over 5,000 that had prostate cancer.
Men who consumed six or more cups of coffee had a lower risk for prostate cancer. Researchers noted that the risk rate was not associated with the caffeine in the coffee. Even lower risk rate was shown in those with more lethal prostate cancer. These results are significant and bring to mind the health benefits of coffee.
Possible Health Benefits of Coffee
- Reduced Alzheimer's risk
- Reduced Parkinson's risk
- Reduced risk for Type 2 Diabetes
- Reduced Heart Disease risk
- Reduced Stroke risk
- Improved liver health and reduced risk of liver cancer
- Reduced risk of various cancers
- Antidepressant effect
- Reduces appetite temporarily
Possible Negative Effects of Coffee
- Increased LDL risk (the "bad" cholesterol)
- Increased acid reflux or GERD risk
- Interferes with iron absorption, and therefore has a negative impact on those with iron deficiency
- Headaches
- Hypoglycemia and increased stress hormones for some
- Decreased fertility for those trying to get pregnant
Conclusions
So far, with all the research out there, it's likely that the positives of drinking coffee outweigh the negatives at this point, so it's up to the consumer to decide. Some recommend green tea as an alternative which is known for its high antioxidant potential. Although for some, coffee is one of the highest antioxidant sources in their diets. It is also important to remember not to load up your coffee with cream and sugar.
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