Coffee is an indispensable source of caffeine and one of the world’s most consumed beverages, yet some question whether its long-term consumption can be considered healthy. While too much caffeine consumption may lead to health problems like heart palpitations and acid reflux, coffee also offers many other health advantages including its ability to increase metabolism, lower risk for liver disease and prevent certain cancers.

But is the type of coffee we drink important? A study published in 2021 concluded that different kinds of coffee could have an impact on arrhythmia and cardiovascular disease risk, with black and decaffeinated varieties having lower risks while caffeinated coffee had increased risks.

This study examined data from the UK Biobank, comprising 449,563 adults free of arrhythmias and cardiovascular disease at baseline. Researchers evaluated participants’ eating and drinking habits; whether or not they smoked; their level of physical activity; as well as any possible signs of cardiac issues or death during their 10-year follow up.

At the end of 10 years, researchers conducted an in-depth comparison between those who had died and those who hadn’t. After taking into account other factors like age, gender, ethnicity, smoking habits, education levels, vigorous exercise levels and alcohol intake levels; those who consumed coffee (even just one cup a day) were found to be less likely to die than those who hadn’t consumed coffee at all.

Another study published in 2018 investigated the connection between coffee drinking and chronic liver diseases. Researchers discovered that those who consumed over two cups per day of coffee saw up to 14% lower odds of liver cirrhosis – an extreme result of some liver diseases – or death, and Parkinson’s disease development or death.

But this observational study cannot definitively prove that coffee is responsible for these effects; other factors, such as genetics or lifestyle choices may influence both groups.

Though randomized controlled trials won’t ever provide definitive answers on this matter, evidence still supports the positive impacts of coffee on health. Coffee provides energy and helps with mental alertness – something especially helpful to those who spend most of their days sitting. Coffee may also help prevent diabetes, improve liver function and decrease Parkinson’s and cancer risks; nonetheless it is always wise to be aware of what you eat and drink and maintain balance in life.