A Swedish researcher’s study of women who drank more than a cup of coffee a day found a 22 to 25 percent lower risk of stroke than those who drank less, according to Stroke: Journal of the American Heart Association. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the USA, behind heart disease and cancer.
Nearly 35,000 women ages 49-83 were followed for an average of 10 years. The findings add to the growing body of research showing coffee appears to have hidden health perks. A study done in 2008 on men who drank coffee or tea had similar results.
One of the most popular drinks in the world, coffee contains large amounts of antioxidants that improve health. Other research has suggested coffee can help prevent cognitive decline and can boost vision and heart health. It is also associated with a reduced risk of liver cancer.