Coffee lovers, have we got some good news about your cup(s) of Joe! A new wave of studies has revealed promising links between coffee consumption (up to as many as eight cups per day!) and longevity. Research shows that drinking just a single cup of coffee daily can lower the risk of premature death by up to 14% compared with not drinking any coffee. And that applies to caffeinated or decaffeinated, brewed, or instant. Key benefits include reduced risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Interestingly, it’s not just the caffeine but also antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that play a role.
A Brief History of Coffee
Coffee’s origins date back to the 9th century in Ethiopia, where legend tells of a goat herder discovering the energizing effects of coffee beans. By the 15th century, coffee had spread across the Middle East. It was a staple in social gatherings at public coffee houses. It then spread to Europe in the 17th century and quickly became a global phenomenon, thanks to its stimulating effects and complex flavors. Today, coffee is a cultural icon with unique traditions across different countries.
Unique Coffee Traditions Around the World
- Sweden – Egg Coffee: In Sweden, people mix a raw egg (and ground eggshells) into the coffee grounds before brewing. The egg and shells are believed to clarify the coffee by reducing bitterness and creating a smoother taste.
- Vietnam – Egg Coffee: A signature in Vietnam, egg coffee is made by whisking egg yolk with condensed milk and sugar. This creates a rich, creamy topping poured over robust coffee. This method was born out of milk shortages during the 1940s.
- Italy – Espresso: Espresso is Italy’s iconic contribution to coffee culture. It is made by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. Espresso offers an intense, concentrated flavor in a small cup.
- Türkiye – Turkish Coffee: Turkish coffee is brewed by boiling finely ground coffee beans in water, often with sugar, and is served unfiltered. The grounds settle at the bottom of the cup, adding to the unique, bold flavor.
Each of these methods highlights how different cultures adapt coffee to local preferences, resulting in a wide variety of flavors and textures enjoyed globally.
Enjoy!
However you enjoy your cup of Joe, you can drink up knowing that it is contributing to your healthy longevity!
Pro Tip: Know your limit. While the studies looked at people drinking as many as eight cups per day, not everyone can tolerate that amount of coffee. Be careful not to overindulge. Excessive consumption may lead to issues like increased heart rate, jitteriness, trouble sleeping, or anxiety.
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