Coffee may prevent Heart Disease
in Women

Study showed moderate coffee drinking may prevent heart disease in post-menopausal women

Researchers from the University of Minnesota studied the data of more than 27,000 post-menopausal women who participated in the 15-year Iowa Women's Health study. Coffee consumption, heart disease incidences as well as incidences of cancer were analyzed. The study found that women who reported drinking one to three daily cups of coffee were 24 percent less likely to die of heart disease, compared with those who didn't drink coffee. In addition, the same group of women who reported drinking one to three daily cups of coffee were also 28 percent less likely to die of other non-cancerous inflammatory diseases. The results of this study were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in May 2006.

Editor's Note - Data inconclusive on Coffee and Heart Disease

Evidence of any connections between coffee consumption and heart disease is still conflicting and inconclusive. In May 2006, a study published in the Circulation Journal found that coffee drinkers did not have a higher risk of heart disease, even among the heavy consumers who drank more than six cups daily.

On the contrary, a study conducted by researchers at the University of Athens and published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in June 2005, found that coffee drinkers had more stiffness of the major blood vessel in the body than non-coffee drinkers. The study suggested that people with high blood pressure or other risk factors for heart disease who drink more than three cups of coffee a day should cut down on coffee consumption.

It is still unknown whether coffee drinking is beneficial or harmful, especially among women. In light of the conflicting data, the American Heart Association suggests that moderate coffee drinking - one to two cups per day - does not seem to be harmful. Therefore, moderation is the key.

Further Reading:

• Coffee and Antioxidants
• Coffee causes no harm to Heart?
• Heart Smart Diet
• Nutrition Guide
• 5 Myths about Drinks
• Coffee: AHA Recommendation