Coffee could be more than a morning pick-me-up, according to new research

A new study suggests that your morning coffee may offer more than just a wake-up boost. Moderate caffeine intake—about three cups of coffee or tea per day—was linked to a lower risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CM), which involves having at least two conditions like coronary heart disease, stroke, or type 2 diabetes. The study, led by Dr. Chaofu Ke from Soochow University, analyzed data from 180,000 participants in the UK Biobank who initially had no cardiometabolic diseases. 

Participants who consumed three cups of coffee daily had a 48.1% reduced risk of developing CM compared to those who drank less than one cup. The study’s large sample size and the use of multiple biomarkers made it a robust investigation into caffeine's effects on heart health.Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of heart disease.

While the findings align with previous research showing caffeine’s potential benefits, experts caution that the study is observational and can’t definitively prove causality. Other factors, such as a healthier lifestyle among coffee drinkers, could be influencing the results. The study also did not assess caffeine from carbonated or energy drinks, leaving their impact unclear. 

Though the research suggests potential benefits, it’s not a recommendation to start consuming caffeine if you don't already do so. Higher doses of caffeine, particularly from energy drinks, have been associated with dangerous heart rhythm problems. Therefore, moderation remains key in caffeine consumption.