As one of the world's most popular consumer beverages, coffee has been the subject of ongoing debates regarding its potential harms and benefits, even within academic circles. In 1990, the World Health Organization initially classified coffee as a 2B carcinogen.
However, in 2016, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a subsidiary of the World Health Organization, re-evaluated the evidence and excluded coffee from the list of "carcinogens."
Numerous studies have examined the relationship between coffee consumption and disease prevention, often focusing on its primary component, caffeine. A 2014 study concluded that coffee drinking does not prevent dementia and, in some cases, long-term caffeine consumption can exacerbate certain dementia symptoms.
On June 15, a prominent panel of experts from the World Health Organization reached the conclusion that regular coffee consumption could provide protection against specific types of cancer. Over the years, numerous studies have highlighted the many health benefits associated with this beverage.
This conclusion represents a notable reversal for the research team, considering that in 1991, coffee was considered "probably carcinogenic,", particularly in relation to bladder cancer.
However, subsequent studies revealed surprising positive effects of coffee, indicating that regular coffee drinkers have lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, neurological disorders, and certain types of cancer.
Nevertheless, the IARC warns that consuming any beverage at a temperature above 65 degrees Celsius has the potential to cause cancer. Christopher Wilder, the agency's director, explained that drinking scalding hot beverages, rather than the beverage itself, could contribute to esophageal cancer.
In its report, the IARC stated that drinking coffee "has a strong antioxidant effect" and is not carcinogenic to the pancreas and prostate. Furthermore, it suggested that coffee consumption might reduce the risk of liver and endometrial cancers. However, the evidence was inconclusive for over 20 other types of cancer.
Apart from its association with cancer, coffee has also been linked to various other health benefits and potential risks. Here are some noteworthy examples:
1. Cardiovascular health: Multiple studies have demonstrated that moderate coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Certain compounds present in coffee, such as antioxidants and polyphenols, may contribute to these heart-protective effects.
2. Type 2 diabetes prevention: Research has indicated that moderate coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Specific components in coffee may help enhance insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar metabolism.
3. Neuroprotection: Caffeine, as a central nervous system stimulant, can enhance alertness and cognitive function to some extent. Moreover, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
4. Antioxidant properties: Coffee is rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenolic compounds, which can counteract the harmful effects of free radicals and reduce cellular damage caused by oxidative stress.
While coffee's potential health benefits and risks continue to be a subject of debate, current research suggests that moderate coffee consumption may provide protective effects against certain diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders.
However, caution should be exercised regarding the temperature of beverages consumed, as extremely hot liquids may contribute to certain types of cancer.
