Postmenopausal women who drink as many as three cups of coffee a day have a reduced risk of dying of heart diseases, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Coffee inhibits inflammation, which plays a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases, said Lene Frost Andersen from the University of Oslo's department of nutrition. Coffee contains antioxidants, which reduce the negative effects of so-called oxidative stress, a condition that can damage the cells.

The researchers conclude that a certain amount of coffee may cut the risk of heart disease, which contradicts some earlier findings. Studies have shown that coffee may help protect against diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes, while other research has tied coffee to increases in blood pressure, heart attacks and fertility problems.

Read more about study findings related to coffee health benefits at bloomberg.com.