Coffee is a very popular beverage and the coffee industry continues to grow globally. Interestingly, even though most of the world’s coffee is grown in the “bean belt”, the area between the Tropic of Cancer (23° North) and the Tropic of Capricorn (23° South), most coffee is consumed in Northern Europe.
There are many positive effects to drinking coffee, such as decreasing levels of depression, improving brain function, and boosting energy levels. Therefore, it is understandable for Northern European countries to be the highest consumers since they are located near the Artic (66° North) where winters are typically long and extremely cold. In fact, per capita, Finland consumes the most coffee in the world.
Due to its popularity, it is of no surprise that a large volume of research has been conducted on the effects of coffee consumption on human health. Recent results have been surprising and encouraging for coffee drinkers. One study presented at the 71st Annual Scientific Session of the American College of Cardiology held in April 2022 showed that drinking two to three cups of coffee every day led to a reduced risk of coronary heart disease, cardiac failure, arrhythmia, or all-cause mortality. Coffee lovers around the world rejoiced at hearing this!
Previously, coffee was assumed to damage the circulatory system, specifically the arteries. Fortunately, new research has debunked this myth. A recent study performed by Queen Mary University of London has shown that drinking coffee, even up to 25 cups per day, is not correlated with arterial stiffening. So, if you are a coffee lover, don’t hesitate to brew yourself a refill if you need one.
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