Want to add years to your life? The answer might be brewing in your kitchen. A recent study suggests a strong link between moderate coffee consumption and a lower risk of death from various causes, including heart disease. But there’s a catch!

The magic lies in the simplicity. The study points to the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties found in coffee itself as the key to its health benefits. Think black coffee, or at least coffee with minimal additions of sugar and cream.

Here’s where mindful consumption becomes crucial. While a daily cup (or two) of relatively pure coffee may boost your longevity, loading it up with excessive sugar and saturated fat completely negates these positive effects. Essentially, drowning your coffee in cream and sugar is like pouring a bucket of cold water over a bonfire – it extinguishes the potential health benefits.

So, the next time you reach for that morning brew, consider the impact of your additives. A little moderation can go a long way towards reaping the potentially life-extending rewards of a good cup of joe.