Up to five cups of coffee daily considered safe and potentially healthy
Translated from Serbian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Up to five cups of coffee daily are generally considered safe and potentially healthy for most adults, according to recent health assessments.
- Moderate consumption, around 400 milligrams of caffeine, is linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Individual tolerance varies, and people experiencing adverse effects like heart palpitations should consult a doctor.
For most healthy adults, consuming up to five cups of coffee per day is considered safe and may even offer health benefits, particularly for the heart. This assessment comes after extensive scientific research into coffee's effects over more than 150 years.
The body can adapt to regular consumption, so even these short-term effects become milder.
The American Heart Association (AHA) has re-evaluated coffee consumption, suggesting that moderate intake, defined as up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily, is not only safe but also associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. This amount typically equates to three to five cups of black filter coffee, each around 240 milliliters.
Similar conclusions were reached by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which also deems up to 400 milligrams of caffeine safe for healthy adults. However, EFSA recommends a lower limit of 200 milligrams per day for pregnant women. For individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those on medication, a doctor's assessment is advised due to potential interactions and individual reactions to caffeine.
Coffee should not be seen as a prescription for a long and healthy heart life. There is no recommendation that suits everyone.
While caffeine can temporarily increase heart rate and blood pressure, long-term studies suggest the body adapts to regular consumption, mitigating these short-term effects. Some research even indicates a potential positive impact on the cardiovascular system. However, experts caution against viewing coffee as a guaranteed path to a long and healthy life, emphasizing that individual responses vary significantly. Those who experience heart palpitations or rhythm disturbances after drinking coffee are advised to reduce their intake and consult a healthcare professional.
The way coffee is broken down varies greatly from person to person. Therefore, you should listen to your body: if you tolerate one cup well, you should not force yourself to drink three.
Originally published by N1 Serbia in Serbian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.