Coffee remains a contentious topic when it comes to its health effects, with studies suggesting both positive and negative health outcomes being linked with its consumption – on one hand it’s been linked with reduced risks for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease – while on the other hand studies have also demonstrated its association with increased cancer risks as well as other serious conditions.

At the end of the day, each individual needs to decide for themselves if the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to coffee consumption. But is avoiding coffee healthier?

Coffee enthusiasts rely on caffeine’s stimulant effects for an energy boost and ability to concentrate, but scientists have discovered more benefits associated with drinking coffee. Researchers have linked coffee consumption with decreased risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain forms of cancer.

Regular coffee drinkers will find relief once they stop consuming it; their body will adjust quickly. Although initially, withdrawal symptoms might include extra tiredness and headaches, these should pass over time and they may find they have more energy after sleeping better at night. Furthermore, their teeth may exhibit less noticeable brown discolorations from too much caffeine intake.

Some experts warn against overdoing caffeine as too much of it can interfere with sleep, increase blood pressure and cause anxiety or nervousness. They advise drinking caffeine as close to bedtime as possible and keeping intake to no more than one cup per day; caffeinated beverages like soda and energy drinks should also be avoided.

Concerned about the negative side effects of caffeine should opt for products with minimal processing and sugar levels, as well as milk alternatives such as soy or almond, which may provide similar health benefits without additional saturated fat and calories. They should also select darker roast coffee as it will have less acidity.

Coffee contains over 100 biologically active compounds known to provide health benefits, such as antioxidants and polyphenols that reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, boost metabolism and inhibit fat absorption. But adding too much milk or sugar “completely alters” its effects; instead adding unhealthy fats and calories that could nullify any beneficial properties in coffee.

Researchers are still studying the relationship between coffee consumption and its constituent components and overall health, but studies suggest that drinking two to three cups per day of coffee has been associated with lower risks of both heart disease and irregular heart rhythms. It should be noted, however, that these observations come from observational cohort and Mendelian randomization studies which compare groups who either do or don’t drink coffee and then follow them over time.