The link between coffee and reduced risk of premature demise has long been confirmed by major studies, but a fresh analysis published in the Journal of Nutrition reveals an important detail: the beverage’s protective effect is easily “nullified” by sugar and fatty additions.
Researchers examined data from over 46 thousand adults across nearly 20 years of observation. It was found that moderate coffee consumption—from 1 to 3 cups daily—is associated with lower overall mortality. Those who regularly drank coffee without extra supplements had a significantly lower risk of dying sooner compared to those who abstained from coffee entirely.
However, this benefit persisted only for black coffee or beverages with minimal additives. As soon as the cup contained over 2.5 g of sugar (roughly half a teaspoon) or more than 1 g of saturated fats (milk, cream), the positive correlation noticeably weakened. Essentially, the “sweet flavor enhancement” consumed that statistical safeguard many people rely upon.
It is especially stressed that this applies to popular coffee drinks—lattes, cappuccinos, frappuccinos. Due to the high volume of sugar and fatty milk, their health consequences are closer to those of desserts than a beneficial drink. No distinct “longevity effect” was identified for them in the study.
The authors emphasize: this concerns an association, not direct proof of a cause-and-effect relationship. But the practical conclusion is straightforward: if you are counting on coffee’s potential cardiovascular benefits, it makes sense to lean toward a blacker, less sugary option—and view syrups, creams, and whipped milk as an occasional treat, rather than a daily standard.
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