Greek coffee, a distinct aspect of modern-day culture in the country, has often been scrutinized by scientists for its attributed health benefits.
Experts conducted a study on the eastern Aegean island of Ikaria, one of the world’s designated “Blue Zones”, exploring the relationship between the consumption of Greek coffee and the health of the residents aged 55 to 100 years.
“Blue Zones” are areas around the globe with a high proportion of long-living people. Apart from Ikaria, others are the Nicoya Peninsula (Costa Rica), Loma Linda (California), the Ogliastra Region (Sardinia) and the large island of Okinawa (Japan).
Scientists have attributed Ikaria’s low rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and dementia to the residents’ lifestyle, including their consumption of Greek coffee.
The results of the study showed that more than 87% of participants who consumed the drink daily exhibited an arterial condition usually seen in much younger individuals.
The effect extended to those with high blood pressure, who exhibited improved endothelial function after coffee consumption.
Researchers argued that the antioxidants in the coffee enhanced cardiovascular function, improving the body’s ability to absorb nitrogen monoxide, which can have damaging effects in the body if found at increased levels.
