Coffee and its effects on health is often controversial, yet for most adults a moderate dose is generally safe. Caffeine has been linked with reduced risks of Type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and liver cancer as well as increasing longevity.

But it is important to keep in mind that supplementation cannot replace whole fruits and vegetables for their essential nutrition in fighting disease. Furthermore, caffeine sensitivity (e.g. anxiety disorders, arrhythmias, high blood pressure or diabetes) could prevent its use being beneficial.

Coffee contains 400 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounce cup, which is about equivalent to the daily amount recommended for most healthy adults without caffeine intolerance. People who regularly drink multiple cups of coffee or other caffeinated beverages such as energy drinks and soft drinks should consider cutting back in order to limit their caffeine consumption.

One cup of black coffee only contains two calories and no fat, yet that cannot be said of other forms, like iced or frothed coffee, as well as coffee shop drinks loaded with sugar, milk and butter. If you enjoy drinking coffee regularly, opt for low-calorie varieties made with skim milk to maximize flavor while limiting calories.

Studies on what’s considered a healthy coffee intake have determined that two or three cups a day may help those suffering from hypertension to improve their blood pressure, prevent or delay cardiovascular disease and coronary artery disease and even lower risk for depression than non-coffee drinkers. Additionally, those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes who regularly drink two or more cups a day were found to have lower depression risk rates.

Studies have linked moderate coffee intake with reduced risks for Parkinson’s disease. It should be noted that these were observational studies rather than controlled trials, while one 2022 study suggests the possible benefits may lie more with its antioxidants and polyphenols than with caffeine itself.

Importantly, pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit or avoid coffee as it could hinder fetal development and lead to miscarriage, stillbirth or other complications. Furthermore, those suffering from certain medical conditions – including heart disease, gout, gallstones or ulcers – should avoid caffeine because it stimulates gastric acid secretion, causes stomach inflammation and may lead to nausea – for this reason alone those who may have these health concerns should consult their physician prior to consuming any caffeinated beverages such as coffee.