Coffee — Benefits and Risks
Coffee is the world's most-consumed psychoactive — caffeine. In healthy person, 3-4 cups (300-400 mg) daily generally safe and beneficial. Sensitivity, pregnancy, sleep issues lower limit.
Benefits
Cognitive performance + focus. Exercise performance 3-7%. Antioxidant-rich (Mediterranean diet's #1 antioxidant source). Type 2 diabetes risk 25% ↓. Liver disease risk ↓. Parkinson + Alzheimer risk ↓.
Risks/Limitations
Should be cut 6-8 hours before bed (disrupts sleep quality). Anxiety, palpitations in some. Pregnancy max 200 mg/day. Coffee doesn't replace inadequate sleep — only temporarily masks.
Optimal Consumption
1.5-2 hours after waking (after cortisol peak). Maximum 2 cups in afternoon. Plain > sweet/milky (calories). Filter coffee raises LDL least (Turkish coffee most).
Frequently Asked Questions
Green tea vs coffee?▼
Both useful, different effects. Coffee stronger stimulant, green tea gentler + L-theanine calming. Can drink both.
Scientific References
- Poole R (2017) Coffee consumption and health. BMJ.
This content is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Consult your physician or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.