Doctors reveal that drinking coffee every morning causes… or not quite!
For countless people around the world, the day doesn’t truly begin until that first sip of coffee touches their lips. The warmth, the aroma, the gentle kick of energy — coffee is more than a drink; it’s a ritual, a comfort, and for many, an essential part of daily life. Yet behind this beloved habit lies a question that doctors and nutrition experts continue to explore: Is our morning coffee helping our health, or quietly harming it? While coffee has historically been seen with mixed opinions, modern research paints a more nuanced picture. Far from being a guilty pleasure, coffee — when consumed in the right amounts — may actually provide notable health benefits. But just as easily, too much can tip the scale, turning a beneficial routine into a source of discomfort or long-term risk.
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This delicate balance between pleasure and excess has led health professionals to clarify what coffee truly does to the body and how much is considered safe. Before diving into the science, the risks, and the recommended daily limits, it’s worth understanding why coffee has such a powerful influence — both positive and negative — on our overall well-being.
Doctors reveal that drinking coffee every morning causes… or not quite!
Every morning, millions of people start their day with a steaming cup of coffee. Its comforting aroma and energizing effect have made it a universal ritual. But how many cups does it take for this pleasure to become harmful to your health?
Doctors are raising the alarm while reminding us that, when consumed in moderation, coffee can also be beneficial to our health.
Why coffee is good for your health
According to Dr. Leana Wen, emergency physician and professor at George Washington University, “the evidence is strong: moderate coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of developing certain chronic diseases.”
Numerous studies confirm that moderate coffee consumption can:
Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
Decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes
Protect against certain cancers and dementia
Coffee contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support the immune system and protect cells. Some components also help improve insulin utilization and stabilize blood sugar levels.
But beware of excess
Too much caffeine can have the opposite effect.
According to ANSES (the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety), about 30% of adults and 11% of children in France consume more caffeine than recommended. This can cause:
Palpitations and restlessness
Anxiety and nervousness
Sleep disturbances
Long-term cardiovascular and bone effects
Certain groups are more sensitive to caffeine, including pregnant women, children, and people taking heart or anxiety medication.
The ideal daily dose of coffee
Dr. Wen reminds us that “up to 400 mg of caffeine per day – roughly equivalent to four cups of filtered coffee – is a safe intake for most adults.”
This corresponds approximately to:
4 cups of filter coffee, or
3 espressos, or
2 large American-style coffees
Beyond that, side effects such as tremors, irritability, or insomnia may appear.
Tips for enjoying
coffee safely
Choose filtered or hand-ground coffee, which is milder and less acidic.
Avoid drinking coffee too late in the day, especially after 4 p.m.
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