Researchers from Hospital de Navarra then examined death rates in the group, with a total of 337 participants dying during the period.

Those drinking coffee regularly had the lowest death rates, with the strongest links found among older participants.

Researchers from Hospital de Navarra then examined death rates in the group, with a total of 337 participants - around 1 in 60 - dying during the period.

Those drinking coffee regularly had the lowest death rates, with the strongest links found among older participants.

Lead author Dr Adela Navarro said she believed the antioxidants in coffee, which come in the form of polyphenols, which caused the effect.

“I would advise drink plenty of coffee, it could be good for your heart. I think it's a good idea to have about four cups a day,” she said.

"I think it's the polyphenols, they have an anti-inflammatory effect.

The study involved those aged between 25 and 60, with a median starting age of 37.

They were tracked for up to 14 years.