Coffee and the risk of early death
Researchers found that people under 55 who drank more than 28 cups of coffee a week were at an increased risk of early death from all causes, with a more than 50 per cent increase in mortality. No adverse effects were found in heavy coffee drinkers aged over 55, according to the findings published in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings. In America, more than 60 per cent of adults drink coffee every day, with an average consumption of three cups.
But it has long been suspected to be linked to a number of health conditions, with studies suggesting it could contribute to cardiovascular disease. For the research, nearly 45,000 people were studied between 1979 and 1998.
Obese moms a risk to their offspring
Children born to obese mothers are 35 per cent more likely to die before they reach 55, a study has found. They also have a 29 per cent increased chance of being admitted to hospital for heart attacks, angina and stroke than those born to mothers of a normal weight. Experts analysed data for 37,709 babies delivered between 1950 and 1976 in Scotland who were now aged 34 to 61. Their mother’s weight was recorded during her first antenatal appointment in pregnancy. The results showed that offspring were 35 per cent more likely to have suffered an early death from any cause by the age of 55 if their mother had been obese in pregnancy. This held true even after other factors were taken into account, including mother’s age, socioeconomic status, sex of the child, birthweight and their current weight.
Watermelon helps you after exercise
Eating watermelon before exercise helps cut recovery time and boost performance, a study has found. The juice has long had a reputation amongst athletes, but now scientists have found evidence that it can relieve post-exercise muscle soreness.
One of the naturally occurring chemicals found in the fruit accelerates lactic acid removal, allowing better physical performance as the athlete can carry out more intense training and is able to recover faster after each workout, it is said.
The report, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, attributes watermelon’s effects to the amino acid l-citrulline. “Watermelon juice, naturally rich in l-citrulline, is an excellent option for athletes who want to improve their sports performance,” the authors say.