At least some of coffee’s health benefits come from its compounds acting on a receptor protein in the human body known for its role in stress response and ageing , a new study reveals. Decades of research suggest that coffee consumption is associated with a longer life and lower risk of chronic disease . Population studies indicate a lower risk of several age-related diseases , including metabolic disease, some cancers, Parkinson’s disease, dementia and heart diseases among coffee drinkers. Major chemicals in coffee, including polyphenols and flavonoids, have been proven to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, which can protect cells from damage and ageing. But exactly how these coffee chemicals bring about their benefits has remained unclear. A Cappuccino cup is pictured (Getty Images for BMW) Now, a new study reveals that coffee may work, in part, by acting on a receptor protein in the body known as NR4A1, increasingly recognised for its role in ageing, stress response, and heart disease.…