Coffee is, for millions of people, more than a breakfast ritual it may have health benefits too, research shows.
Drinking up to five cups of coffee per day is associated with a lower risk of stroke, type 2 diabetes and heart disease according to the American Heart Association (AHA).
The research adds to a growing body of evidence that moderate coffee consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed without excessive sugar, cream or high-calorie flavorings.
Coffee and Heart Health
Coffee is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease, with coffee consumption in people who drink coffee regularly and rarely or never.
Coffee can be found with natural components antioxidants, polyphenols and anti-inflammatory substances that protect blood vessels and promote heart health overall.
Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with lower risk of heart failure, coronary heart disease and stroke in many long-term observational studies, according to the American Heart Association.
Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
One of the most consistent findings in nutrition research is that drinking coffee is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
Scientists believe coffee may help increase insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism as its bioactive compounds may activate the body’s immune system.
Regular and decaffeinated coffee have also been associated with benefits in several studies so it is possible that their benefits go beyond caffeine alone.
How much coffee is safe
The AHA says up to five cups of coffee a day should be a healthy diet for many adults. But the right amount of coffee varies based on age, body weight, pregnancy status and personal susceptibility to caffeine.
Health care professionals have suggested limiting caffeine consumption to about 400 milligrams per day for healthy adults about as much as four or five regular cups of brewed coffee.
People who are anxious, sleep poorly or have heart palpitations or have a high sensitivity to caffeine may also need to consume less.
What's the best way to drink coffee
Coffee quality matters as much as the way in which coffee is made. Experts say that black coffee or coffee made with little or no added sugar and low-fat milk offers the greatest potential health benefits.
Specialty coffee beverages loaded with syrups, whipped cream and sugar can greatly increase calorie intake, and may be counter-productive for the health benefits of the drink.
Coffee Is Not a Cure-All
The research is encouraging but coffee alone cannot prevent chronic diseases. A healthy lifestyle is the most important for reducing cardiovascular disease and diabetes exercise, eating healthy, keeping yourself well-rested, stress relief and not smoking.
The American Heart Association also says that most evidence comes from observational studies, meaning the research identifies associations rather than proving direct cause and effect.
Bottom Line
Even moderate coffee is healthy for most adults. Coffee consumption of up to five cups a day can help with stroke, heart disease and type 2 diabetes and may reduce the risk when combined with other healthy habits.
Coffee should be recommended to patients with existing medical conditions and concerns about caffeine as always.
