‘I drink black coffee every day’: Oncologist shares 6 research-backed benefits, from brain health to longevity
Do you think your daily coffee is a guilty pleasure? Black coffee may offer many health benefits, from liver health to brain protection, says Dr. Vartika Vishwani.
Roasted coffee beans in the bowl of a coffee grinder at a branch of a Costa coffee shop near Manchester, Britain, May 5, 2017. Photograph: REUTERS/Phil Noble/File Image
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Roasted coffee beans in the bowl of a coffee grinder at a branch of a Costa coffee shop near Manchester, Britain, May 5, 2017. Photograph: REUTERS/Phil Noble/File Image
Black coffee, in particular, can be a relatively healthy choice when consumed without excess sugar or high-calorie additives. In her Instagram post on July 27, oncologist Dr. Vartika Vishwani shared why she drinks black coffee every day, and highlighted six potential benefits associated with regular coffee consumption.
1. It may reduce the risk of premature death
According to Dr. Vishwani, research involving about 171,000 adults found that people who drank 1.5 to 3.5 cups of coffee daily had a 30% lower risk of death compared to those who did not drink coffee. However, such studies show a relationship and do not prove that coffee itself directly increases lifespan.
2. It can reduce the risk of chronic diseases
Coffee consumption has also been linked to a lower risk of several chronic diseases, including heart disease, liver disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Dr. Vishwani cited findings from more than 200 meta-analyses, which suggest that drinking about three to four cups of coffee per day may be associated with a lower risk of many chronic health conditions.
3. May support liver health
Your liver may also benefit from moderate coffee consumption. Coffee contains antioxidants and plant compounds that may help reduce inflammation and protect against liver damage. “Your liver loves coffee,” Dr. Vishwani wrote, noting that research has linked coffee consumption to a lower risk of fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
4. May reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes
Coffee may also play a role in metabolic health. According to Dr. Vishwani, studies show that each additional cup of coffee consumed daily is associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes by approximately 6-7 percent. Compounds in coffee, including chlorogenic acids and polyphenols, may help regulate inflammation, glucose absorption and insulin function.
5. It may reduce the risk of some types of cancer
Coffee has also been studied for its potential role in cancer prevention and outcomes. “Research suggests that coffee may reduce the risk of some types of cancer,” Dr. Vishwani wrote, pointing to studies linking coffee consumption to a lower risk of liver and endometrial cancer.
She also noted that observational studies have found better survival outcomes among some people with colorectal cancer who drank coffee. However, these results do not prove that coffee is a cure for cancer.
6. It can benefit brain health
The benefits may extend to the brain as well. Large observational studies have consistently found an association between coffee consumption and a reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease. Caffeine and other bioactive compounds in coffee are being studied for their potential protective effects on brain health.
Should everyone drink black coffee every day?
Not necessarily. Despite its potential benefits, coffee is not a miracle drink and may not be suitable for everyone. Dr. Vishwani advised people who suffer from uncontrolled anxiety, certain heart rhythm disturbances, or existing medical conditions to talk to their doctor before increasing their coffee intake.
For healthy adults, up to about 400 mg of caffeine per day is considered a level that can be consumed without major safety concerns, although individual tolerance varies. Depending on the strength of the coffee, this can amount to approximately 3-4 cups, but cup size and caffeine content can vary greatly.
The oncologist also stressed that coffee should complement healthy lifestyle habits and not replace them. “Coffee can’t replace good sleep. Coffee can’t replace exercise. Coffee can’t replace a healthy diet,” she wrote.
So, if you enjoy your coffee black in the morning, there may not be enough reason to feel guilty about it. The key is moderation, individual tolerance and the overall quality of your diet and lifestyle.
Dr. Vartika Vishwani is a surgical oncologist specializing in breast cancer and gynecology. She holds an MBBS, MSc in General Surgery and a DNB in Surgical Oncology, and works as a Consultant Breast and Gynecology Surgical Oncologist.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions about a medical condition.
