Up to 4 cups of coffee a day can protect the heart, but one extra may be harmful

For years, coffee has been a subject of debate, with some people avoiding it due to concerns about caffeine and its potential effects on blood pressure. Others, however, cannot imagine their day without several cups.

A recent scientific review by the American Heart Association (AHA) offers a more nuanced perspective, suggesting that for the majority of adults, moderate coffee consumption can align with good cardiovascular health. This finding provides some reassurance to the millions who enjoy their daily coffee ritual.

However, the review highlights that the health impact of coffee is not solely determined by the number of cups. The type of coffee and the total caffeine intake from all sources are crucial factors. This means that while a few cups of black coffee might be fine, adding multiple sugars and creams, or consuming other caffeinated beverages alongside, could alter the overall health implications.