Coffee consumption and serum lipids: a randomized, crossover clinical trial

Article Abstract:

There are conflicting reports on the effect of coffee drinking on health. Some studies have associated coffee drinking with increased heart disease and elevated serum (blood) cholesterol levels, but other studies have not shown this association. A positive correlation has been reported between coffee consumption and levels of low-density lipoprotein (LPL) cholesterol. The results of some clinical trials suggest that elevated cholesterol levels are seen with boiled coffee, but not with filter-brewed or instant coffee. This study evaluated the effect of drinking three or more cups of filter-brewed coffee a day on serum lipid levels. Twenty-one healthy men were divided into two groups. For the first two-month period, one group drank three or more cups of coffee a day; for the second two-month period they abstained from coffee. The second group abstained for the first two months, and drank coffee during the second two months. The subjects were allowed to drink only filter-brewed coffee, and no other sources of caffeine were allowed for the entire four-month study period. The men were interviewed monthly on changes in diet, new medications, and adherence to the outlined regimen. At the end of each two-month period, serum lipid profiles were performed. The men drank an average of 3.6 cups of coffee a day. Analysis of the results indicated that coffee consumption had no effect on serum cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low density lipid protein cholesterol, or apolipoprotein. It is concluded that filtered coffee in moderate amounts has no adverse effects on serum lipids. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Health aspects, Risk factors, Physiological aspects, Coffee (Beverage), Lipid metabolism, Coffee, Blood lipids, Hypercholesterolemia, Coffee habit

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Career development in academic medicine

Article Abstract:

Academic medicine requires the continued input of new and talented individuals. However, young faculty may be confronted with various problems that interfere with the development of a successful academic career. Some problems include inadequate preparation for a research career, difficulties in obtaining research funds, and pressures to perform increased clinical and teaching duties. The development of skills as investigators and educators requires time that may be limited by clinical demands. The overburden of clinical duties and lack of a focused research program may interfere with career aspirations, causing frustration; for these reasons young faculty may decide to leave academic medicine. The common mistakes or problems encountered by young faculty members who are attempting to develop their research careers are discussed. New faculty must develop strategies to enhance their opportunities for academic survival and success. They should carefully negotiate the terms of their employment and select an appropriate mentor or counselor. They must also define their goals, manage their time, develop a focused research program, and maintain productivity in order to survive in academic medicine. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Practice, Training, Medical research, Medical education, Medical scientists

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