Drinking hot drink could prevent Covid-19 infection and reduce risks, study says

Coffee has a range of health benefits

Experts believe that moderate coffee consumption could potentially reduce the risks associated with a range of health conditions, particularly Covid-19. Researchers from Taiwan studied the effects of coffee on Covid-19 infections and found that drinking one to two cups a day could “inhibit the infection” of multiple variants.

“Moderate coffee consumption, including decaffeination, can provide a new guideline for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2. Based on the results, we also suggest a coffee-drinking plan for people to prevent infection in the post-Covid-19 era.”

The researchers found that the ingredients in coffee can inhibit Covid-19 by restraining the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and preventing the virus from infecting cells. They conducted a trial with 64 people using a range of store-bought coffees from a variety of countries.

All of the coffee types, including ground coffee, instant, and decaf, were effective. The researchers said: “Interestingly, no matter what kind of coffee or adding additional intergrading (sugar or milk), it has the capability to reduce SARS-CoV-2 entering into host cells.

“The best timeline for impeding SARS-CoV-2 entry is within six hours after drinking coffee. It is recommended to intake coffee once again after six hours to maintain the efficacy of inhibiting infection.”

And that’s not the only health condition that coffee can potentially help with. Other studies suggest that the compounds found in coffee, like chlorogenic acid, can positively impact blood pressure, cardiovascular health and liver function.

A study published in the journal Psychiatry Research last year also showed that drinking two to three cups of coffee per day could reduce the risks of depression and anxiety.

Experts recommend drinking coffee either black or with milk and not adding any additional sweeteners or sugar. It is also not recommended to consume caffeine late in the evening to avoid trouble sleeping.

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