Reply With QuoteWhy Your Third Cup is a "Longevity Tool"
Beyond the telomeres (which are essentially the protective caps on our DNA), here is why that third cup is working for you:
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: For many people in Western diets, coffee is actually the primary source of antioxidants, even beating out fruits and vegetables. It's packed with polyphenols like chlorogenic acid.
- Liver Health: There is remarkably strong evidence that moderate coffee consumption significantly reduces the risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Cognitive Defense: Regular intake is consistently linked to a lower risk of neurodegenerative issues, specifically Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
- The "Blue Zones" Factor: As Dan Buettner notes, coffee isn't just about the chemistry; it’s often a social ritual. In places like Ikaria or Sardinia, that cup of coffee is usually enjoyed with friends, adding a layer of social connection that is a pillar of longevity.
The "To a Point" Caveat
You mentioned you feel good "to a point," and the research backs your intuition there, too. The benefits tend to plateau or even reverse if:
- Sleep is disrupted: If that fourth cup interferes with your sleep cycle, the loss of restorative rest usually outweighs the antioxidant benefits.
- Additives: The longevity data usually applies to black coffee or coffee with a splash of milk—once it becomes a "dessert in a cup" with heavy syrups, the metabolic cost changes.
NO INSTANT HERE the 'internation roast' on warships will never ever pass my lips again
How much coffee should you drink a day to get the most health benefits? Experts reveal | South China Morning Post
Originally Posted by Saitch
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