The Greeks may seem to really have something when it comes to longevity. In fact, researchers from the University of Athens and published in Vascular Medicine have connected a relationship between Greek coffee and cardiovascular health and increased longevity.
Known for their longest lifespans in the world as reported by Dan Buettner in his book, The Blue Zones, the subjects of the Athenian study were residents of Ikaria, a Greek island just 10 miles off the shore.
One hundred and forty-two Ikarians of both sexes and over the age of 65 were analyzed for diabetes and high blood pressure as well as measured for their lifestyle habits such as coffee intake, medical health and their endothelial function.
Results showed that 87 percent of participants who drank boiled Greek coffee had better endothelial function than those who drank other types of coffee. Probably because boiled Greek-style coffees are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants and contain only a moderate amount of caffeine. Some health experts also show a relationship between coffee consumption and prevention and improvement of neurological disorders, skin cancer, reduced stroke risk, and prevention of heart failure.
Not bad for the humble coffee beverage.