Coffee offers many health advantages. It can improve brain health and increase longevity, while decreasing risks for certain diseases and conditions. But too much caffeine can have adverse side effects, including headaches, dizziness and nausea – as well as heart palpitations!

Research suggests that two to three cups of coffee per day may reduce the risk of heart disease and arrhythmia. Although these studies were observational in nature – meaning they can only show correlation and cannot prove causation – their results remain intriguing.

Another noteworthy study showed that participants who consumed four or more cups of coffee daily saw a 20% decrease in depression risk and 53% lower suicide risk; those drinking three to four cups daily experienced up to 50% reduced likelihood of Parkinson’s disease – these findings, along with other research, suggest 4-5 cups may be optimal for mental wellbeing as well as the prevention of many serious illnesses.

Though coffee offers many health advantages, it’s essential to be aware of its potential risks when consumed excessively. A cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 96 milligrams of caffeine; depending on individual tolerance for caffeine consumption more than four to five cups daily may cause unwanted side effects; generally speaking, 400 mg per day – equivalent to about six 8-ounce cups – should be kept under control.

Last year, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published an exhaustive study on coffee’s effects. Researchers analyzed data from 347,077 adults aged 37-73 who consumed coffee regularly and whether or not they had a gene variant known to slow caffeine metabolism (CYP1A2) that increased cardiovascular disease risk by 22% when they consumed six or more cups per day compared with those without this variation in CYP1A2.

Note that studies citing the benefits of coffee usually refer to plain, black coffee – not lattes, cappuccinos and other gourmet drinks that often contain extra calories from sugar, cream and whipped toppings – when discussing its health implications. Furthermore, it would be prudent to discuss these matters with your physician if any doubts exist regarding how your individual body reacts to coffee consumption.

As with any diet, it’s essential to discuss how much coffee you drink regularly with your healthcare provider. Although many experts consider moderate coffee consumption beneficial, the decision about when and how often one consumes coffee must ultimately be your own. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers as well as individuals with other medical conditions should consult their physician in order to determine if drinking coffee safely.