Why black coffee is secret weapon for heart health

If you find it hard to start the day without a latte, a top heart surgeon has some advice that might change your morning ritual.

Dr Jeremy London, a cardiothoracic surgeon with 25 years of experience, recently shared why your simple cup of "joe" could be a powerful tool for longevity.

In a video posted on Friday, he explained that while coffee is often vilified, its purest form—black and unsweetened—is actually a nutritional powerhouse.

The secret lies in what you leave out. Dr London clarified: “The short answer is yes. But let me clarify. I'm talking about black coffee, not coffee that's loaded with sugar and milk, and certainly not the milkshakes you can get from certain establishments.”

By ditching the syrups and cream, you let bioactive compounds like chlorogenic acid do their magic. These anti-inflammatories and antioxidants help fight oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic illness.

According to Dr London, the data is incredibly promising. He highlights: “But what does the data show? A decrease in type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk, all cause mortality, a decrease in certain cancers, and a decrease in neurodegenerative diseases.”

For most people, three to four cups a day is the "sweet spot" for safety. He advises enjoying your brew between morning and midday to protect your sleep.

Interestingly, he also notes: “if you don't want all of this caffeine, you get similar benefits from decaf coffee as well.” So, keep it simple, skip the sugar, and let your heart reap the rewards.