A new study has identified specific proteins that interact with caffeine in coffee, which help the liver eliminate bad cholesterol from the bloodstream, thus protecting against cardiovascular diseases. Researchers at McMaster University in Canada found that regular caffeine consumption is associated with lower levels of a protein called PCSK9 in the bloodstream. Lower levels of this protein enhance the liver's ability to break down LDL cholesterol, the "bad" type that can clog arteries and lead to cardiovascular diseases.
Furthermore, the researchers in the study, published in the journal Nature Communications, discovered that caffeine also prevents the activation of another protein called SREBP2, which in turn also reduces levels of PCSK9 in the blood. Senior study author Richard Austin noted that "the study's findings revealed the underlying mechanism by which caffeine and its derivatives can reduce PCSK9 levels in the blood, thereby lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases," as reported by New Atlas.
The researchers warned that mixing coffee with sugar or cream could negate any benefits of caffeine and also pointed out the dangers of consuming energy drinks that contain this compound.
