Coffee consumption is associated with a lower level of serum CRP in humans

Objectives:
The association between coffee consumption and the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) has been evaluated in several epidemiological studies with conflicting results. Therefore, this meta-analysis (systematic review) has been conducted.

Does coffee consumption reduce level of C-reactive protein in humans?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 9 cross-sectional studies.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found according to the combined standard mean difference (SMD) between the highest and the lowest coffee intake category, coffee consumption was associated with a significantly lower level of serum CRP level [SMD = -0.34, 95% CI = -0.62 to -0.06, p = 0.016].

The investigators found subgroup analysis for CRP marker showed that coffee consumption was associated with a significantly lower level of serum high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) [SMD = -0.51, 95% CI = -0.88 to -0.14, p = 0.007], but not standard CRP [SMD = 0.02, 95% CI = -0.28 to 0.32, p = 0.913].

The investigators concluded that coffee consumption is associated with a lower level of serum CRP, particularly serum high-sensitivity CRP. However, more well-designed prospective cohort studies are needed to elaborate the concerned issues further.

Original title:
Is coffee consumption associated with a lower level of serum C-reactive protein? A meta-analysis of observational studies by Zhang Y and Zhang DZ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29405789

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on coffee and chronic disease right here.