Yes, drinking 2-4 cups of coffee daily is generally considered beneficial for health, as per a 2023 study by Stephen Safe at Texas A&M University. Researchers from the University of Glasgow also found links between moderate coffee consumption and improved hydration, digestion, reduced inflammation, enhanced heart health, lower mortality rates, and a reduced risk of several diseases.
So why is coffee good for you? Coffee contains beneficial compounds like caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and diterpenes. These offer antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and antimutagenic properties. Caffeine, in particular, can significantly improve brain function, mood, and physical performance, as shown in a 2019 study by Adriana Farah at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.
How does coffee affect your body? When you drink 1 to 2 cups of coffee, caffeine is rapidly absorbed into your bloodstream, peaking within 15 to 120 minutes. The duration of these effects varies depending on factors like your metabolism, age, and overall health. It's important to be mindful of the potential risks associated with excessive coffee intake. A study from the University of South Carolina found that drinking 28 cups of coffee per week (around 4 cups per day) may increase mortality risks for men and women under 55.
This leads to broader questions about how to maximize the benefits of drinking coffee (which are listed below). Should you drink it black, decaffeinated, or choose organic varieties? At Powerbean Coffee, we specialize in USDA-certified organic specialty coffees packed with antioxidants. These coffees may further enhance the potential health effects of your daily cup.
1. Coffee And Kidney Stones
Drinking four cups of coffee per day has been associated with a reduced risk of developing kidney stones, according to a 2021 study led by Yazeed Barghouthy from Sorbonne Université. Kidney stones are crystalline mineral deposits that form within the kidneys, often causing severe pain and discomfort. So, how does coffee help kidney stones? While caffeine in coffee can increase the excretion of certain minerals in urine, it also has a diuretic effect, potentially counteracting the risk of stone formation.
In the study, those who drank at least one serving of caffeinated coffee per day had about a 26% lower risk of developing kidney stones compared to those who drank less than one serving per week. This relationship between drinking coffee and kidney stones was further supported by three large studies led by Pietro Manuel Ferraro from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, involving 217,883 participants, which found that those with the highest caffeine intake had a significantly lower risk of developing kidney stones.
In a 1996 comparative study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, Dr. Gary Craig Curhan, a senior lecturer on Medicine at Harvard School of Public Health, demonstrated that coffee, tea, beer, and wine were associated with a lower risk of kidney stones. Conversely, apple and grapefruit juice increased the risk.
This table, sourced from Dr. Curhan's 1996 study, illustrates how coffee, tea, and other beverages may affect kidney stones.
| Beverage | Risk Change per 240-ml Serving Consumed Daily |
|---|---|
| Caffeinated Coffee | -10% |
| Decaffeinated Coffee | -10% |
| Tea | -14% |
| Beer | -21% |
| Wine | -39% |
| Apple Juice | +35% |
| Grapefruit Juice | +37% |
So, should I drink or avoid coffee if I have kidney stones? According to the National Kidney Foundation, you can enjoy coffee in moderation even with kidney stone disease. Stick to black coffee, limit cream and sugar, and consult your doctor if you have other health concerns. Note that coffee can also have hydrating effects, which is beneficial for kidney stone prevention.
2. Coffee And Hydration
Drinking 4 cups of coffee daily can positively affect hydration levels and prevent dehydration. A 2014 study by led by Sophie C Killer from the University of Birmingham (with 50 healthy male participants) found no significant difference in hydration levels between habitual coffee drinkers and those who consumed water. This suggests moderate coffee consumption provides similar hydrating effects as water.
What about those who don't usually drink coffee? Does it still count as hydration? The effect of coffee on hydration might differ in individuals who don't regularly consume caffeine. A 2003 study by Professor Ron Maughan, specifically focusing on infrequent caffeine users, found that larger doses found in 2-3 cups of coffee (equivalent of 250-300 mg of caffeine) can temporarily increase urine output. Yet, our bodies develop tolerance, meaning typical amounts of caffeine found in coffee do not have a significant diuretic effect.
But how does coffee affect hydration if you drink a lot of it? To investigate this, let's look at a 2017 study by Adam D. Seal from the University of Arkansas. The study found that drinking a lot of coffee (about 3-4 strong cups) increases urine output compared to water or coffee with less caffeine. This increased urine output (diuresis) was seen in the 3-hour period following coffee consumption. However, moderate amounts of coffee (roughly 1-2 cups) did not appear to significantly affect hydration levels in the study participants. Staying hydrated, eating well, and staying active are key for regular bowel movements.
3. Coffee And Bowel Movements
Coffee affect bowel movements. Bowel movements refer to the passage of waste through the intestines and out of the body, involving processes of digestion, absorption, and excretion. So how does coffee stimulate bowel movements?
Coffee stimulates the release of hormones and digestive processes that increase activity in your colon, leading to quicker bowel movements. This is according to Dr. Paul Boekema, a gastroenterologist specializing in conditions like Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and Zenker's diverticulum at University Hospital Utrecht. Dr. Paul Boekema states it is normal for coffee to make you poop. In his 1990 study titled "Coffee and gastrointestinal function: facts and fiction," Boekema noted an increase in rectosigmoid activity (movement of the rectum and sigmoid colon, which are parts of the large intestine) within 4 minutes of drinking coffee (much faster than water).
So, does this mean coffee makes you poop more than water? Yes, it does. A 1998 study by the University of Iowa College of Medicine, published in the European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, found that drinking caffeinated coffee stimulates colonic motor activity 60% stronger than water and 23% stronger than decaffeinated coffee. This is in line with a 1990 study titled "Effect of Coffee on Distal Colon Function" by Steven R. Brown, investigating the effects of coffee on bowel movements. The study reported that 29% of participants reported a desire to defecate within 20 minutes of drinking coffee, as show in this graph.
- 29% reported a desire to defecate within 20 minutes of drinking coffee.
- 3% of responding women and 19% of responding men experienced coffee-induced defecation.
- 52% mentioned the effect occurred only in the morning.
- 23% of coffee responders also had a similar reaction to tea (caffeine content 1.5-3%).
Surprisingly, even decaf coffee can help you poop. A recent study by Ioannis D Gkegkes from General Hospital of Attica "KAT" in Athens found that decaf coffee also speeds up bowel movements. This means that caffeine isn't the only thing in coffee that helps with digestion. Other compounds, like chlorogenic acids and melanoidins, might also play a role.
4. Coffee And Digestion
Coffee influences digestion, the process of breaking down food into smaller components that can be absorbed into the bloodstream, in healthy individuals. When you eat, your stomach releases hydrochloric acid and enzymes, such as pepsine, chymosine, and lipase to break down food. Coffee, because of its caffeine and other compounds like polyphenols, can make your stomach produce more acid. This increase in stomach acid has several impacts on digestion.
For instance, a 2016 study by Emilia Papakonstantinou from the Agricultural University of Athens found that drinking 200 mL of brewed black coffee containing 160 mg of caffeine led to significant increases in salivary alpha-amylase (a digestive enzyme) and salivary gastrin levels. Interestingly, the study also found that instant coffee resulted in the highest increase in these levels compared to other coffee types.
Research from the University of Vienna and the University of Southern Denmark also suggests that coffee consumption leads to an increase in bile secretion, enhancing the digestion of fats.
However, the picture becomes more complex when considering individuals with pre-existing digestive issues. Will drinking coffee help, or could it further complicate things? The effects on those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis remain inconclusive.
While some studies suggest that coffee consumption may exacerbate symptoms or even predict the occurrence of IBD, others propose that it has no significant impact or may even be protective in some cases. For example, a 2024 study by Jana Raupbach from German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam on 442 patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis found that 73% regularly consume coffee, with most finding it has a positive or neutral effect on their condition. However, those who avoid coffee often believe it worsens their symptoms, especially in the case of Crohn's disease.
Overall, the evidence suggests that drinking coffee can offer several benefits for digestion. While some studies, including a 2024 research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, indicate a potential minor decrease in casein protein digestion, coffee's positive effects on digestive processes and its potential to reduce the risk of health issues like gallstones and liver disease appear to outweigh this drawback.
5. Coffee And Liver
Drinking coffee may positively impact liver health, according to Dr. Manav Wadhawan, Director of Hepatology at BLK Super Speciality Hospital. Research suggests benefits for the liver, which plays a vital role in detoxification, protein synthesis, and digestion. Coffee contains various substances – including caffeine, antioxidants, and minerals – making it difficult to pinpoint the exact source of its liver-protective effects.
So how does coffee help liver function? Filomena Morisco, a professor of Gastroenterology at the University of Naples, explains that drinking brewed coffee may reduce liver enzyme activity, potentially aiding those with liver conditions like hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Elevated levels of AST, ALT, and GGTP can indicate liver damage or disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver tumors. Her 2014 study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology suggests that drinking unsweetened coffee decreases fat accumulation and collagen deposition in the liver while boosting antioxidant capacity.
What about more serious issues? Can people with liver disease drink coffee? For individuals already diagnosed with liver disease, studies like Sammy Saab's in 2014 suggest that drinking coffee is not only safe, but is also linked to improved liver enzyme values. It's also associated with a reduced risk of disease progression, lower mortality rates, and a decreased incidence of the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer, in patients with chronic liver disease.
While these studies are promising, including a 2022 University of Coimbra study suggesting coffee could benefit those with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease who are overweight and have type 2 diabetes, it's crucial to remember that coffee is not a cure or substitute for medical treatment of liver conditions.
6. Coffee And Diabetes
Drinking coffee may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, according to a large number of prospective cohort studies. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease where the body has difficulty regulating blood sugar levels and responding to insulin. But how exactly does coffee impact this disease?
A 2012 systematic review by Arti Muley, published in Current Diabetes Reviews, analyzed 13 cohort studies involving over 47,000 participants. The review found that regular coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, those who drank 4 to 6 cups or more than 6 to 7 cups of coffee per day had an even lower risk compared to those who drank less than 2 cups per day.
So how does coffee affect diabetes? Mattias Carlström, Professor of Cardiorenal Physiology at Karolinska Institutet, suggests several possibilities. These include thermogenic effects (increasing the body's metabolism), antioxidant effects (protecting cells from damage), and anti-inflammatory effects (reducing harmful inflammation).
- Thermogenic Effects: Drinking coffee can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes because it may slightly increase your body's internal temperature, leading to increased calorie burning at rest. This is supported by a 2006 review article by James A. Greenberg from the City University of New York, which analyzed both epidemiologic (prospective cohort) and laboratory studies. Studies estimate this effect could lead to burning an extra 100 calories per day if you drink around 6 cups of coffee.
- Antioxidant Effects: Coffee contains antioxidants, such as caffeine, CGA, lignan, flavonoids, caffeic acid, and melanoidins, that fight oxidative stress, according to E Koen Bekedam from Wageningen University. Oxidative stress is linked to worsened insulin resistance and complications often associated with diabetes.
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: Coffee contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which could help combat the chronic inflammation associated with type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest coffee consumption may reduce levels of certain inflammatory markers and increase anti-inflammatory substances in the body, potentially aiding in the management of T2D.
Research published in Nutrients in 2021 by Hubert Kolb suggests a direct correlation between coffee intake and diabetes prevention, with the risk potentially dropping by 6% for each additional cup consumed daily. Kolb suggests that this effect stems from coffee's impact on liver function and beta cell health, not just immediate blood sugar control. A 2012 review in Current Diabetes Reviews confirms these benefits, highlighting the advantages of filtered over-boiled coffee and decaffeinated over-caffeinated for lowering diabetes risk.
7. Coffee And Inflammation
Drinking coffee influences inflammation, but the exact impact of caffeine on gut, stomach, or bladder inflammation is more complex. Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain. So does coffee help or hurt inflammation? According to a 2019 systematic review by University of Brasilia published in the Critical Reviews journal observed both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses.
For example, in several trials, researchers reports that drinking brewed coffee was associated with increased levels of adiponectin, a hormone that has anti-inflammatory properties, while in one study, caffeinated coffee intake was linked to an increase in interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, a type of cytokine typically triggered in response to infections and injuries, suggesting a potential pro-inflammatory effect.
We can gain insights into whether coffee helps, causes, or worsens inflammation from a 2006 study by Esther Lopez-Garcia at Harvard Medical School. Her study, titled 'Coffee consumption and markers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in healthy and diabetic women,' found that neither caffeinated nor decaffeinated filtered coffee negatively impacts endothelial function. The endothelium, the thin layer of cells lining blood vessels, plays a crucial role in preventing excessive inflammation and regulating immune responses. The research shows that drinking one cup (237 mL) of brewed coffee is linked to lower levels of inflammation and better endothelial function, which means healthier blood vessels.
A 2022 research by Ksenija Velickovic from University of Nottingham suggests that, for most people, enjoying coffee in moderation is unlikely to cause significant inflammatory concerns. Coffee consumption may not only help reduce inflammation but also potentially aid in fat loss by stimulating brown fat cells that burn calories for heat.
8. Coffee And Weight Loss
Drinking coffee helps with weight loss, according to animal studies, but human trials show mixed results. Weight loss is defined as the reduction of total body mass, including fat, muscle, and water. But how is it affected by drinking coffee?
A 2004 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial on female mice by Guodong Zheng suggests that caffeine and theanine play a role in the anti-obesity effects, reducing body weight gain and the weight of fat tissue located within the abdomen. In terms of human trials, the evidence on whether coffee promotes or stalls weight loss is limited and somewhat conflicting.
For example, Matthias Henn and colleagues in their 2023 observational cohort study found that increasing coffee intake from low to moderate levels (1-2 cups per day), but not too high, is linked to favorable fat loss. This study tracked fat changes in 1,483 individuals with metabolic syndrome using DXA scan over three years. It found that increasing coffee consumption from infrequent (less than 3 cups of coffee per month) to moderate (1-7 cups per week) reduced total body, trunk, and visceral fat. However, high consumption of more than 2 cups per day or changing decaffeinated coffee intake didn't significantly affect fat levels.
In another 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis by Reza Tabrizi from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, it was found that caffeine intake significantly promotes fat burning, showing a 22% increase in weight reduction, 17% in BMI reduction, and 28% in fat mass decrease for every doubling in caffeine intake. In contrast, a 1992 study from the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University in Copenhagen found that caffeine did not induce significant weight loss in obese subjects over a 24-week period.
A more recent observational study from 2016 by Dina Icken from Hannover Medical School on 2,623 participants found that those who manage to maintain weight were also consuming significantly more cups of coffee and caffeinated beverages compared to those who did not.
Overall, while coffee and weight loss might have a modest positive connection for some individuals, the extent of its influence is likely dependent on factors like intake levels, physical activity, and individual metabolism.
9. Coffee And Exercise
Drinking coffee affects exercise performance. Exercise is a physical activity requiring effort, aimed at improving health, strength, and fitness, characterized by intensity, duration, and frequency. This naturally raises the question: how does caffeine in coffee affect our ability to perform during exercise?
Dr. Terry Graham's 2001 study "Caffeine and exercise: metabolism, endurance and performance" found that while caffeine doesn't directly increase your maximal oxygen capacity, it may allow you to train harder and longer. This means improved power output, endurance, and greater resistance to fatigue during both short, intense workouts and longer-duration exercise. However, Dr. Graham notes that caffeine from coffee may not be as potent as pure caffeine sources.
So, how much coffee should you have before a workout? A 2021 review in Nutrients Journal by Sergio L Jiménez suggests a minimum of 3mg of caffeine per kg of body weight, ideally consumed about an hour before exercise. For an 80 kg (176 lb) person, this would be about 2.5 cups of coffee; for a 100 kg (220 lb) person, around 3 cups.
What about drinking coffee after your workout? A 2021 clinical trial by Laís Monteiro Rodrigues Loureiro indicates benefits to post-workout coffee consumption as well. The study found that drinking coffee with milk promoted better muscle glycogen recovery and higher glucose and insulin levels compared to drinking milk alone. While coffee is known for its stimulating effects on exercise, it's also worth exploring how caffeine interacts with cognitive functions like memory, especially in comparison to the benefits of exercise.
10. Coffee And Memory
Coffee enhances memory. This mental boost, crucial for learning and adaptation, benefits from caffeine stimulation. A 2011 European Food Safety Authority report suggests that consuming 1-2 cups of coffee daily improves memory, alertness, and overall cognitive performance. Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, leading to improved attention.
So, does coffee improve memory? Research indicates it can. In a 2016 controlled experimental study by Stephanie M. Sherman, those who consumed caffeine early in the day showed significant improvement in tasks related to explicit memory (the ability to consciously recall information). This makes coffee potentially beneficial for those facing morning exams.
Does this mean coffee always helps with studying? Not necessarily. Coffee's impact on studying and exam preparation is complex. It can potentially enhance or inhibit memory and learning depending on the task, individual sensitivity, and dosage. For instance, a 2017 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study by Wilrike J Pasman found that coffee with caffeine led to faster reaction times, with some tasks being done 10% faster compared to decaf. On the other hand, caffeine withdrawal can have negative effects on memory, like headaches and reduced alertness, as noted in a 2005 study by Peter J Rogers.
How does coffee affect memory in older adults? Interestingly, a 2021 study by Samantha L. Gardener suggests that higher coffee consumption may be associated with slower cognitive decline in older adults, specifically in areas related to preclinical Alzheimer's Disease.
11. Coffee And Dementia
Coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of dementia, a decline in cognitive function characterized by memory loss, impaired reasoning, and personality changes. Findings from longitudinal epidemiological studies reviewed by Marjo H Eskelinen from the University of Eastern Finland, School of Medicine, suggest a potential benefit, although not all results are conclusive. Three out of five studies suggest coffee may favorably impact cognitive decline, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease (a common form of dementia).
In the Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia (CAIDE) study, drinking 3-5 cups of coffee per day in midlife was linked to a 65% reduced risk of dementia/Alzheimer's Disease in later life. However, a 2018 meta-analysis by Susanna C. Larsson and Nicola Orsini, encompassing over 328,000 individuals, indicated no clear link between coffee intake and dementia, suggesting the area requires further investigation.
12. Coffee And Longevity
Research consistently shows that moderate coffee consumption is associated with increased longevity and reduced risk of various diseases. Several studies support this idea. One comprehensive 2018 review by James H O'Keefe found a link between drinking 3-4 cups of coffee daily and reduced all-cause mortality, including cardiovascular issues. A similar review by Salman K. Bhatti in 2013 linked coffee consumption to lower rates of heart disease and some cancers.
So, is coffee good for longevity? Yes, according to a large 2022 study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, high coffee consumption (4+ cups daily) was associated with a lower risk of 30 medical conditions including rheumatic disease of the heart valves, ischemic heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease, compared to those drinking minimal amounts. Similarly, a 2022 study by Can Hou suggests increased longevity in regular coffee drinkers, especially those consuming 4-5 cups daily.
The benefits of coffee seem to stem from its positive effects on blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure, which are key factors in longevity. However, excessive coffee intake can lead to side effects like anxiety and insomnia, highlighting the importance of moderation.
How Much Coffee Should I Drink?
The ideal amount of coffee for you depends on several factors, including your personal tolerance, how close you drink it to meals, and your activities (such as running, studying, starting work, or preparing for a blood test).
- You should drink approximately 1-2 cups of coffee, equivalent to about 150 mg of caffeine, upon waking for minimized nighttime sleep disturbances and daytime caffeine benefits. A study by Janine Weibel and colleagues from the University of Basel found that daily caffeine intake (150 mg 3 times daily) does not significantly affect circadian rhythms but aids in wakefulness and reduces sleepiness during withdrawal phases.
- You should drink a moderate amount of coffee (1-2 cups) after lunch to stay awake. A 1990 study from Cardiff University showed that caffeine can boost attention and help combat the midday slump in performance, highlighting its positive effect on cognitive function after lunch.
- You should drink 1 to 3 cups of coffee (approximately 3 to 9 milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight) before running if you want to improve your running speed and finish time. A 2023 study by Ziyu Wang and colleagues, published in Nutrients, showed that caffeine can notably boost endurance running performance based on findings from 21 trials with runners from Beijing Sport University and Rey Juan Carlos University.
- You should drink one cup of coffee 30 minutes before studying for a test. A 2016 study from Boston College and the University of Arizona demonstrated that caffeine significantly enhances explicit memory performance in young adults during their non-optimal time of day, specifically in the early morning.
- You should drink around 2-3 cups of coffee (equivalent to about 220 mg of caffeine) before a long day at work. A 2005 study by Andrew P. Smith from Cardiff University linked higher caffeine consumption to increased alertness and improved reaction time during the workday, along with reduced risk of cognitive failures and workplace accidents, underscoring its benefits for performance and safety.
- You should drink a cup of coffee one hour before a blood test without worrying about clinically significant changes to routine biochemical and hematological test results. A study published by researchers from Argentina in the Croatian Society of Medical Biochemists found that drinking coffee an hour before phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood, had minimal impact on test results interpretation, despite slight statistical changes in some parameters.
On the other hand, you should limit your coffee intake after dinner to avoid disrupting your sleep. A study conducted in 2021 at the Psychiatric Hospital of the University of Basel discovered that having caffeine before bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep and might decrease the depth of sleep, especially when consumed too much in the evening.
When Should You Drink Coffee?
You should drink coffee in the morning before engaging in short-term maximal exercise. A 2012 study by Makram Souissi demonstrated improved performance, increased anxiety and vigor, and decreased simple reaction time in elite athletes. However, whether you should drink coffee on an empty stomach, before training, or when you're not feeling well depends on factors like individual tolerance, exercise timing, and personal preference.
Should You Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach?
You should drink coffee on an empty stomach if you aim to reduce acute energy intake before breakfast. A study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition showed that consuming caffeine 0.5-4 hours before a meal can reduce energy intake. Researchers from Auburn University at Montgomery and Griffith University conducted the review, emphasizing caffeine's ability to curb appetite and potentially decrease calorie consumption.
Should You Drink Coffee Before Working Out?
You should drink coffee before exercise to enhance physical performance. The International Society of Sports Nutrition states caffeine, including from coffee, improves exercise outcomes, noting benefits in muscular endurance, strength, and aerobic performance. Drinking 1-2 cups of coffee, equivalent to roughly 95-190 milligrams of caffeine, can noticeably improve physical performance when taken 60 minutes before exercise. Studies confirm caffeine's ergogenic effects vary by individual, influenced by factors like genetic caffeine metabolism differences and habitual intake.
Should You Drink Coffee When Sick?
You should drink caffeinated coffee when sick with the common cold to alleviate malaise. A 1997 study by the University of Bristol found that drinking 1 to 2 cups of coffee, equivalent to about 1.5 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight, notably boosted alertness and performance in individuals with colds. Subjects who drank caffeinated coffee regained alertness and performance levels similar to those of healthy individuals.
What Happens if You Drink Too Much Coffee?
Drinking too much coffee can cause health problems, such as anxiety, sleep issues, and high blood pressure, according to a 1993 study published in Canadian Nurse Journal. However, when determining how much coffee is too much, the FDA has cited 400 milligrams a day—equivalent to about four or five cups of coffee—as an amount generally not associated with dangerous negative effects.
Are There Any Side Effects of Drinking Coffee?
Yes, side effects of drinking too much coffee include a temporary rise in blood pressure, the potential for increased cholesterol levels, and a higher risk of miscarriage for pregnant women. To directly answer the question 'is coffee bad for you', the answer is yes if you drink more than the recommended amount (about 400 mg of caffeine per day).
Exceeding 400 mg of caffeine per day can lead to addiction, insomnia, and migraines. Although these risks vary based on consumption level, timing, and individual sensitivity, moderate intake (3-4 cups or 300-400 mg of caffeine daily) can be beneficial. While generally safe in moderation for most adults, specific groups like children, pregnant women, and those sensitive to caffeine should limit their intake.
What Are the Health Benefits of Drinking Black Coffee?
The benefits of drinking black coffee are listed below.
- Drinking black coffee during intermittent fasting helps suppress appetite without impacting glucose levels.
- Prostate cancer risk is decreased with regular drinking of black coffee.
- Drinking black coffee regularly lowers uric acid levels in the body, reducing the risk of gout.
Additionally, studies like the Nurses Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-up Study show that drinking four or more cups of black coffee daily leads to significant positive changes in biomarkers, including increased SHBG, testosterone, and adiponectin levels, along with reduced inflammatory markers.
What Are the Health Benefits of Drinking Decaf Coffee?
Drinking decaf coffee can positively impact insulin sensitivity and brain health, and may slightly lower blood pressure. A systematic review and meta-analysis by researchers from the Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin demonstrated that the benefits of decaf coffee intake led to reduced fasting blood glucose levels by approximately 0.81 mg/dL. Packed with natural antioxidants, drinking decaf coffee offers other health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved heart and liver health, and a potentially lowered risk of cancer. This is according to a 2021 study by Raffaella Colombo and Adele Papetti at the University of Pavia.
What Are the Benefits of Organic Coffee?
Organic coffee offers higher levels of bioactive compounds than conventionally grown coffee, contributing to its health benefits. A study by the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, led by Maciej Górecki and Ewelina Hallmann in 2020, found that organic coffee had a richer content of flavonoids and phenolic acids compared to conventional coffee. The optimal preparation of organic coffee to maximize these benefits involves medium roasting and a brewing time of 3 minutes, ensuring the best taste and quality.
Is Organic Coffee Better for You?
Yes, organic coffee is better for you because it contain higher levels of beneficial bioactive compounds compared to conventional coffee. Powerbean Coffee offers organic specialty-grade coffee options such as the Bali Blue Moon Coffee and Colombia Medium Roast, both certified as fair trade and organic. Our organic coffee is cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, adhering to strict standards set by organizations like the USDA to prioritize environmental sustainability and produce high-quality beans.
