Coffee is well known for both it’s popular taste and varied health benefits. When we analyze the different effects of a cup-of-joe, mostly, the buzz of caffeine comes to mind. Although your cup can come packed with that much-needed energy, today we’re talking about an even hotter topic.
As the health benefits of coffee are continuously studied, the question remains, “just how many cups of coffee per day are healthy?” We have your answer along with a few coffee facts to keep you on the edge of your seat and willing to pour up another brew.
Just One More Cup?
Did you know that, technically speaking, coffee is the most widely used psychoactive substance on the planet? With the presence of caffeine, coffee is the go-to for folks from America to Italy. But, does that mean it is actually good for you and your health? The answer is yes…but it depends.
As mentioned in previous articles, studies have shown a direct correlation between coffee and improved heart health. Keep in mind these studies refer to a cup of black coffee, which is VERY different than one mixed with creamers and sugar. Although black coffee remains at around one calorie, we have to recognize the adverse effects of sugar.
“Even if you add sugar and don’t exceed your calorie needs, you’re still negating some of the benefits because sugar is a negative food ingredient.” according to nutrition professor at Penn State University, Penny Kris-Etherton.
So with its vast popularity and often mistaken health effects, just how many cups of coffee per day are healthy? A definitive answer to this question can be tricky.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition came to the conclusion that six eight-ounce cups or more per day can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 22% after studying around 350,000 individuals.
On the other hand, four cups of coffee per day has been regarded as a safe standard. Federal dietary guidelines suggest three to five eight-ounce cups of coffee daily (including 400 milligrams of caffeine) are within recommendations for a healthy diet.
With those two studies in mind, we can agree that anything in excess is harmful to you.
When handled correctly and with mindfulness, 3-4 cups of coffee a day would be the optimum amount. Just always be wary of your creamers and sugars!
[with help from usatoday.com]
