Coffee is an often-consumed beverage, enjoyed by millions. When combined with milk, sugar, creamer or even flavored syrups, the caffeine and sugar content can quickly skyrocket, leading to weight gain or other health concerns. But research shows that drinking moderately may actually be healthy; drinking two to three cups daily of brewed coffee could potentially protect against stroke and heart disease risks; two or three may even lower risks by up to 40%! However, those taking medications such as alendronic acid should consult their physician on an individual basis as how much caffeine is safe for them personally.

One of the major draws of coffee as a healthy beverage is its ability to reduce blood pressure. Soluble fiber in coffee has been found to lower cholesterol levels and improve liver function, and also contains chlorogenic acid which has been shown to delay glucose absorption into the intestine and increase insulin sensitivity – studies have linked coffee intake with decreased rates of Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and liver cancer.

Coffee’s high antioxidant content is another reason it is considered healthy. While specific roasting and brewing methods affect its levels, all forms of coffee have been found to provide protection from cardiovascular disease as well as depressive symptoms.

There is some evidence to support coffee’s polyphenols as being useful in protecting against certain forms of skin cancer, including malignant melanoma and basal cell carcinoma. Furthermore, its antimicrobial properties help combat bacteria responsible for tooth decay as well as plaque. Nonetheless, its acidity could result in erosion and discoloration if not rinsed away adequately after drinking it.

Another downside of excessive coffee intake is its potential to deplete essential minerals like calcium, magnesium and potassium. Furthermore, its acidity can cause serious discomfort to both heartburn and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

No matter if it’s hot brew, cold brew, instant coffee or something in between, the amount of water added will have an impactful impact on its acidity. For optimal results it’s recommended that more water be added than necessary, to dilute its acidity and help prevent digestive problems.

Coffee should ideally be enjoyed without milk or sugar for optimal nutrition. Consuming these extra calories quickly adds up, as they often contain saturated fat and added sugars. If you cannot completely give up coffee altogether, consider switching up your roast type or trying an iced option instead. Additionally, the type of brewing method matters as this affects acidity levels as well as antioxidant levels in your cup of joe – French press and Aeropress typically feature lower acidity while espresso has the highest.