Two to three cups of coffee a day linked to lower risk of heart and metabolic diseases

Recent research suggests that drinking two to three cups of coffee or tea daily may reduce the risk of developing coronary heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, the study analyzed data from 188,000 participants aged 37 to 73 from the U.K. Biobank, who reported their caffeine consumption and had no prior cardiometabolic diseases at the start.

After 12 years, those who consumed 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine daily—equivalent to two to three cups of coffee or tea—had a lower risk of these diseases compared to those who consumed less than 100 milligrams daily. Coffee drinkers showed nearly a 50% reduction in risk, while those who drank a combination of coffee and tea saw a 40% reduction. Even among those consuming over 400 milligrams daily, no negative effects were noted.

Moderate caffeine intake was associated with beneficial changes in metabolites linked to heart health. However, experts caution that the findings should be viewed in context. Dr. Luke Laffin from the Cleveland Clinic emphasized moderation and noted that excessive coffee consumption could raise blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

Additionally, high caffeine intake has been linked to risks such as dementia and stroke. Dr. Stephen Kopecky from the Mayo Clinic added that while caffeine’s health effects are complex, it’s important to consider the overall diet and avoid high-calorie additives in coffee and tea.