The majority of people do not realise that coffee can be beneficial for health, a new survey suggests.
A study by ICM polled over 1,000 adults and found that 84 per cent were unaware that it has been shown to protect against cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
Nearly three quarters did not know that it may protect against type-2 diabetes, and 61 per cent did not realise that a cup of coffee can count towards our recommended daily fluid intake.
Dr Sarah Jarvis, a GP at Richford Gate Medical Practice, commented: "We need to be aware that there are many misconceptions about coffee that are simply not true.
"There is strong scientific evidence to suggest that moderate coffee consumption (four to five cups per day) may confer a variety of health benefits and should be enjoyed when we take our breaks in the day."
A study published by the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation in June found that drinking six to eight cups of coffee may help to protect against multiple sclerosis, although the study was only carried out in mice.