Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, with more than 9.8 billion kilograms consumed in the year 2019/2020 according to statistics. Starting from Ikaria, a member of the Blue Zones, the 5 locations worldwide with the highest life expectancy and best health indicators, the search for the secret led, among other things, to the consumption of coffee. Coffee, and specifically Greek coffee, is a daily habit of the island’s inhabitants regardless of age. In the context of the “IKARIA Study”, the effect of coffee on cardiovascular health indicators in individuals aged 66-91 was examined. Indeed, 87% of the sample consumed at least one coffee daily and this appeared to improve endothelial function, i.e. the function of the inner lining of the vessels, and thus cardiovascular function.

These findings were confirmed by a 2019 study. Specifically, the relationship between coffee consumption and mortality from all causes, but also specifically due to cardiovascular disease, was investigated. The results showed a positive effect of coffee consumption on the aforementioned issue. Both studies reported that their results were possibly due to the antioxidant substances contained in coffee. Research data indicate that promoting coffee consumption may be a promising lifestyle intervention to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.