Coffee has long been considered an integral part of daily life for many. Not only is it enjoyable, but its health benefits extend far beyond lowering risk factors for heart disease and depression; studies also point to protection from liver cancer and diabetes. But just how much coffee should one drink each week? According to new research, drinking over 28 cups may increase risks.

Researchers conducting an observational study published online in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology observed the coffee habits of nearly 40,000 individuals, finding those who regularly consumed two to three cups had lower risk of heart attack or stroke compared to those consuming less coffee due to polyphenols contained in coffee that help reduce inflammation and prevent blood clot formation. They attribute this result to coffee’s protective polyphenols which work by helping reduce inflammation while also helping prevent blood clot formation.

Researchers discovered that those consuming more than four cups a day saw an increased risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes. For individuals already living with mild high blood pressure, six cups was the threshold at which coffee started negatively affecting heart health.

Most experts consider 400 milligrams of caffeine a day safe for most adults; that amount would equal three to five 8-ounce cups of coffee. However, depending on your health condition or sensitivity levels to caffeine consumption this could differ; always consult your physician in order to find what’s right for you.

Studies touting the health benefits of coffee typically focus on “black” coffee – no creamer, sugar or flavoring syrups added – which most of us don’t drink our morning brew with. Single-serve liquid creamers contain about 15 calories per tablespoon while packets of sugar have around 15 per packet, adding hundreds of extra calories without even realizing it!

Heavy coffee consumption not only adds unnecessary calories, but can also dehydrate you. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, forcing the body to expel more water through urine production – leading to dehydration that has negative repercussions for both brain and body health.

As research on coffee’s health benefits is observational in nature, most studies citing its advantages are observational in nature and cannot prove causality; nonetheless, findings show some promising trends: coffee drinkers appear to have reduced rates of Parkinson’s disease, certain cancers and depression. If you enjoy your daily cup of Joe, aim for four to six black cups per day without adding cream, sugar or flavorings such as syrups – opt for organic light roast specialty beans for optimal taste and additional antioxidant benefits!