Date: June 3, 2026
Chinese Study: Sweetened Coffee Linked to Lower Risk of Early Death
Key Findings:
- Study from Southern Medical University in Guangzhou tracked over 171,000 people for 7 years.
- Unsweetened coffee reduced death risk by 16 to 21 percent.
- Coffee sweetened with one teaspoon of sugar per cup reduced risk by 29 to 31 percent.
- Results for artificial sweeteners were inconclusive.
- The study is observational, not experimental. It does not prove direct cause and effect.
- Warning: Ready-made coffee drinks from chains contain much higher amounts of sugar.
Researchers from Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, China, published a new study in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine. The study examined the effect of sweetened coffee on the risk of early death. It included more than 171,000 participants from the UK Biobank project. The average follow-up period was about seven years.
As a result, the study found that drinking moderate amounts of coffee, whether sweetened or unsweetened, is associated with a lower risk of death. This research is one of the first large-scale studies to directly compare the effect of adding sugar to coffee on long-term health outcomes.
Key Results: Up to 31 Percent Lower Death Risk
The researchers divided participants into groups based on their coffee consumption. These groups included non-drinkers, unsweetened coffee drinkers, sugar-sweetened coffee drinkers, and artificially sweetened coffee drinkers. After seven years of follow-up, the results were clear.
First, people who drank any amount of unsweetened coffee were 16 to 21 percent less likely to die compared to non-drinkers. Second, those who drank 1.5 to 3.5 cups per day of sugar-sweetened coffee were 29 to 31 percent less likely to die. The researchers noted that these participants added only about one teaspoon of sugar (approximately 4 grams) per cup on average.
In contrast, the results for those who used artificial sweeteners were inconclusive. The reduced risk applied to deaths from cancer and cardiovascular disease as well.
Summary of Results
| Coffee Type | Daily Amount | Reduction in Death Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Unsweetened coffee | Any amount | 16% to 21% |
| Sugar-sweetened coffee (1 tsp per cup) | 1.5 to 3.5 cups | 29% to 31% |
| Coffee with artificial sweeteners | Varies | Inconclusive |
Why Is Coffee Beneficial? Possible Mechanisms
Coffee contains biologically active compounds that offer potential health benefits. The most important are antioxidants and polyphenols, especially chlorogenic acids. These compounds fight oxidative stress and inflammation. They also improve blood vessel function and glucose metabolism. In addition, caffeine enhances cognitive function and may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
As a result, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, heart disease, certain cancers, liver disease, and depression. However, the question remains: why did coffee with a small amount of sugar show even better results? Researchers believe that a small amount of sugar (one teaspoon) is not enough to cancel out the large benefits of coffee. But this needs further confirmation.
Important Caveats: Not a License to Add Excess Sugar
The researchers emphasize that these results do not mean adding sugar to coffee is beneficial in itself. The study observed an association, not a direct causal relationship. It is possible that people who regularly drink sweetened coffee also have a generally healthier lifestyle. Furthermore, the amount of sugar used in the study was very small (one teaspoon per cup).
In contrast, ready-made coffee drinks from major chains contain much larger amounts of sugar. A single drink can contain 20 to 50 grams of sugar. This far exceeds health recommendations. The World Health Organization recommends that free sugars should be less than 10 percent of daily calories. For an average adult, that is about 50 grams (12 teaspoons) per day. The ideal amount is less than 5 percent (25 grams or 6 teaspoons).
Therefore, researchers advise drinking coffee black or with a very small amount of sugar (no more than one teaspoon per cup). Avoid heavily sweetened drinks, heavy cream, and flavored syrups. Home brewing is preferable for better control of ingredients. Individuals with insomnia, anxiety, or stomach issues should consult their doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sweetened Coffee Study
A: No. The study found a statistical association, not a causal relationship. The amount of sugar used was very small (one teaspoon per cup). A generally healthy lifestyle may also play a role.
A: The optimal range is 1.5 to 3.5 cups per day. This amount was linked to the largest reduction in death risk.
A: Yes, the study included various types of coffee. However, benefits are usually greater with filtered or freshly ground coffee.
A: The WHO recommends less than 10 percent of daily calories (about 50 grams or 12 teaspoons). The ideal is less than 5 percent (25 grams or 6 teaspoons).
A: The results were inconclusive. There is not enough evidence of benefits or harms from this study.
A: Most coffee shop drinks contain very high amounts of sugar (20 to 50 grams). This may cancel out potential benefits and increase health risks. It is better to order black coffee or add a small amount of sugar yourself.
Prepared by: Scientific News Unit – Qahwa World – based on a study published in Annals of Internal Medicine on May 31, 2022, and the accompanying press release from the American College of Physicians.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice.
Publication date: June 3, 2026
