Many people consider coffee more than just a drink; it has become part of their daily ritual. Coffee can help kickstart their day, provide energy in the afternoon or provide much-needed digestive relief after dinner – which has lead to many studies showing its positive impacts on health. Yet many are wondering whether excessive consumption is indeed healthy?

Coffee drinkers should take comfort from knowing that coffee can provide them with antioxidants linked to reduced risks of heart disease, diabetes and Parkinson’s. Yet too much caffeine in coffee could pose risks of anxiety and jitteriness as well as increase in blood pressure and heart rate, according to some studies.

To minimize these side effects, public health experts and dietary guidelines advise adults to limit their coffee intake to no more than 400 milligrams a day, equivalent to roughly four regular eight-ounce cups. This figure falls within safe guidelines set forth by public health experts and the food and agriculture organizations.

An American Journal of Clinical Nutrition study indicates there is an “off switch” when it comes to coffee consumption and heart disease risk. Researchers used data from UK Biobank participants, tracking 347,077 health indicators over time. Results of this research suggested those drinking six or more cups daily increased their chances of heart disease while those drinking less had no detrimental affects.

This may be related to the fact that those who consume more than six cups of coffee a day tend to possess genetic variants of CYP1A2, an enzyme responsible for processing caffeine more slowly – leading to higher blood pressure and an increased heart disease risk.

Though this study was comprehensive and well-executed, some drawbacks should be considered. Participants weren’t randomly placed into different groups which can impact outcomes. Furthermore, researchers failed to measure all other potential caffeine constituents such as potassium and magnesium that can have negative impacts on heart health.

Dr. Monti recommends drinking coffee moderately – no more than several regular cups per day if possible – and to reduce caloric intake through ingredients like cream and sugar that add calories. He warns against drinking hot coffee due to an increased risk of burning oneself while increasing risk of burning their mouth or esophagus.

If you are an avid coffee drinker, there’s no reason to give up! Numerous studies show the beverage may provide various health advantages – from potential protection from dementia and Alzheimer’s to reduced heart disease risks and diabetes risks. Just make sure that your intake remains moderated and that any additional beverages consumed don’t become substitutes as not all beverages contain equal benefits.