Drinking 4 cups of coffee as day could slash the chances of an early death, according to a major new study.

Research on 20 thousand middle aged people found that those who drank coffee regularly had mortality rates almost two thirds lower than non-drinkers.

Previous studies found that coffee can improve liver function reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.

Coffee contains a number of compounds including caffeine, diterpenes and antioxidants, and scientists believe some of these have a protective impact on the body.

So drink up my friends!