Are You an Addict of Coffee? New research indicates that moderate coffee intake could lower risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, and extend healthy lifespan. Researchers conducted an examination of data compiled from over 400,000 adults who consumed coffee over an 11-year period. Researchers found that those who consumed three or more caffeinated coffee drinks per day were 17% less likely to die from all causes and 31% less likely from heart disease compared with those who did not drink coffee at all. Furthermore, they believe other components found in coffee such as chlorogenic acids and polyphenols helped mitigate oxidative stress and metabolic dysfunction that contributes to premature mortality.

Scientists don’t fully understand why coffee has such an effect, but they believe it may contain hundreds of bioactive compounds which interact to alter our physiology in various ways. Furthermore, substances which drive inflammation tend to peak first thing in the morning – possibly being counteracted by anti-inflammatory chemicals found in coffee consumption early in the day rather than throughout the day. That is why they focused their research on coffee consumption before breakfast rather than throughout the day.

Scientists found the greatest benefits in those who drank two to three cups of coffee daily, regardless of their drinking style or quantity, whether light or heavy drinkers. Unfortunately, though, these benefits did not extend to later-drinkers; though their reason remains elusive. Researchers suggest other types of caffeinated drinks, like soda and energy drinks didn’t have the same impactful impact.

As with any food, those sensitive to caffeine should limit their consumption. This includes pregnant women who should refrain from having it while others such as those suffering from high blood pressure or diabetes that can be affected by caffeine should also limit their consumption. It should be noted that according to European Food Safety Authority standards 400 milligrams daily of caffeine is considered safe while FDA suggests being cautious when adding caffeine into your diet, especially if preexisting medical conditions or medications exist in your life.

How can the best foods support our health? Experts advise consuming a plant-based diet low in saturated and trans fats and sugar, to achieve weight loss while improving cholesterol levels and decreasing your risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This approach should lead to weight maintenance as well as decrease chances of health conditions such as cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes.

How Many Servings Should I Consume of Each Food? mes Your daily caloric needs vary based on factors like body size, activity level and goals. In general though, most healthy individuals should consume about 2,000-2,500 Calories on average per day which includes three or four servings each of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and dairy, as well as protein sources like fish, poultry nuts or beans as well as healthy fat sources like olive, peanut, canola or sunflower oils to balance it all out.