No doubt about it: Coffee offers many health advantages to our hearts. But the key to enjoying its benefits lies in moderation; if you enjoy one cup a day without adding sugar and creamers, chances are it could be beneficial for you.

Coffee may pose some risks, including increased risk of high blood pressure, digestive issues and reduced sleep quality; but that shouldn’t dissuade anyone from enjoying its benefits. Beata Rydyger of HPVHUB advises drinking up to four cups a day as long as your caffeine tolerance doesn’t suffer – with black coffee without sugar or milk being optimal; “adding creamers or sweeteners is actually more detrimental for heart health than simply sipping plain,” according to Beata Rydyger.

Coffee can help improve both mental and physical performance. It increases fatty acid levels in the liver, which in turn converts fat to energy for the body. Furthermore, coffee improves muscle movement and decreases fatigue – though consuming too much caffeine may increase urination rates, lead to dizziness or cause dehydration; for optimal performance when exercising it is recommended that adding water into your cup of joe.

Researchers have revealed that those who regularly consume coffee may reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and liver diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. It’s believed that the anti-oxidants and caffeine present in coffee help stop build-up of proteins that damage livers; additionally it has also been linked to reduced risks of prostate cancer as well as protection against mouth and skin cancer.

Coffee may help improve digestion by increasing stomach acidity. This is possible because coffee contains soluble fibre that facilitates food digestion in the small intestine, where most nutrients are absorbed. If you have a sensitive stomach or are lactose intolerant, be wary about consuming too much coffee as too much may lead to gas, bloat, and abdominal pain.

Coffee consumption may help decrease your risk of depression and suicide, according to studies. Coffee has an uplifted effect on mood by raising serotonin levels; its phenolic acids may prevent dopamine degradation in brain cells as well.