A few cups of coffee a day can be healthy. Here are some interesting health facts coffee lovers will delight in.

Coffee contains antioxidants, which assists in preventing the onset of degenerative diseases, according to a study carried out in Switzerland.

The Australian Institute of Geoscientists found that by drinking coffee regularly the chance of developing diabetes is reduced by 50 percent. Caffeine decreases the body’s sensitivity to insulin, and two other natural ingredients in coffee, magnesium and chlorogenic acid, actually help the body metabolize sugar.

Regular consumption of coffee assists in moderating asthma attacks. So much so that respiratory physicians advise withdrawal of caffeine from the diet for at least four hours preceding bronchial challenge testing.

Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital found evidence that caffeine may combat Parkinson's Disease by protecting the brain cells from depletion of the nerve chemical dopamine which is the problem underlying Parkinson's disease.

Researchers speculate that caffeine has muscle-soothing effects which can boost exercise endurance.

Some studies show that regular intake of coffee reduces chances of kidney stones and gallstones by 50 percent and colon cancer by 25 percent.

Some studies also show that coffee can prevent tooth decay.

According to studies at Vanderbilt University's Institute for Coffee Studies shows that large amounts of coffee can help prevent heart disease and liver damage in heavy smokers and those who drink alcohol.

A University of Toronto study showed that women who drank six or more cups of coffee a day had about a 75 percent reduction in the risk of developing breast cancer.