Who hasn't felt that a good cup of coffee in the morning wakes even the dead? For many, coffee is a lifesaver, especially when insomnia strikes and you have to get up early. But there has always been the fear that coffee causes nerves, high blood pressure, or health problems.
However, Harvard gives us an unexpected twist: coffee could be a great ally for healthy aging. In fact, they recommend up to seven cups a day, but beware, don't overdo it!
Coffee and healthy aging: what does science say?
Sara Mahdavi and her team at Harvard have studied thousands of women for decades. The result is fascinating: those who drink coffee regularly are more likely to age while keeping good physical and mental health. We're not talking about just any drink—neither tea, decaf coffee, nor cola drinks offer the same benefit.
Each cup of coffee is linked to a 2% to 5% increase in the chance of becoming a healthy older adult. This includes not only avoiding serious diseases but also keeping memory and physical function in good shape. In other words, coffee and health go hand in hand.
How much coffee is good for you?
The study recommends moderate consumption: up to five small cups a day (about 2.5 standard cups). But beware, it's not just about quantity. For coffee to be an ally, it must be consumed with caffeine, not decaf.
Also, genetics play an important role: some people may be sensitive to caffeine and experience negative effects. That's why it's best to start slowly and see how your body reacts.
It's also important to pair coffee with healthy habits: a good diet, exercise, and avoiding tobacco. Only then can coffee make a difference in your long-term health.
How to start enjoying coffee without stress
If you're not into coffee, don't worry, you don't have to start drinking large amounts all at once. Start with a mild coffee, like a medium-roast arabica. If it makes you nervous, try a latte or coffee with plant-based milk and take it easy, never after 6 pm.
Don't use coffee to replace meals and, above all, enjoy it. Find the cup you like best and pair it with something you love. In summer, for example, an iced coffee with a touch of cinnamon is a refreshing treat.
If you don't like it at first, keep trying. There are many ways and flavors of coffee, and you're sure to find your favorite. Harvard confirms it: coffee can be your best ally to live longer and better.