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How Much Coffee Daily Is Healthy?
Coffee is more than a mere morning wakeup: It’s also an important source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Coffee beans are especially abundant in B vitamins, potassium and riboflavin; furthermore, coffee may have anti-inflammatory properties and even help fight cancer; in fact, recent research indicates a lower risk for diabetes, heart disease and Parkinson’s disease among regular consumers of this beverage.
However, some people remain reticent to partake of coffee due to fears regarding how much caffeine is safe. According to registered dietician and health coach Lisa Polgreen, one or two cups per day may be sufficient if you are sensitive to caffeine; she notes however, this all depends on your preparation method as well as type of sugar/cream used and preference of preparation method – decaf can also be an option if caffeine levels become an issue for you.
At 400 milligrams daily, healthy adults can consume the safe amount of caffeine without experiencing unwanted side effects like headaches, nervousness or difficulty sleeping. People with certain medical conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease should consult with their physician to ascertain whether coffee consumption is safe. According to the European Food Safety Authority.
No matter your preference for coffee – black or with cream – preparation and timing are both key in optimizing its health benefits. According to Davis, drinking your morning cup early – before noon — is optimal in order to protect the sleep cycle and melatonin production.
Be mindful about adding too much sugar to your morning beverage; adding more than one teaspoon can significantly increase calorie and carb consumption, thwarting weight loss goals or leading to digestive issues. For optimal nutrition, aim for one tablespoon or less.
Make the most of your coffee by opting for organic beans and drinking it filtered, if possible. Doing this can reduce cafestol levels that increase cholesterol and other lipids in your drink; don’t forget to stay hydrated as coffee can act as a mild diuretic; aim for at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day in order to stay properly hydrated if drinking coffee causes dehydration; alternatively try switching it up by trying chamomile or lavender herbal tea which contain less caffeine – for a restful night’s sleep!
