Most coffee drinkers have about three cups of java a day. And there are a lot of coffee drinkers in the United States. The National Coffee Association, yes it’s really a thing, estimates that 62 percent of Americans drink coffee every single day. But what does the constant flow of joe do to our bodies? Besides the instant need to relieve your bowels, that is. Keep reading to find an answer to the question on the mind of every coffee addict: is drinking coffee good for you?
What are the benefits of coffee?
Well, besides the obvious caffeine fix, a 2021 study by the European Society of Cardiology shows there are plenty of health benefits to drinking coffee. The study took place over 10-15 years and showed drinking up to three cups a day can lower the risk of strokes and heart diseases. Study participants who had cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) done had “healthier sized and better functioning hearts” according to the study. Another study by PLOS Medicine, a peer-reviewed medical journal, showed that regularly drinking coffee could lower your chances of stroke and dementia.
But what about my $8 venti caramel frappuccino macchiato with a shot of espresso and rocket fuel?
Firstly, go get yourself a decent coffee maker and save a few dollars. Secondly, that’s a silly question. A cup of black coffee has less than five calories and no fat. Naturally, the more you add to your coffee, the unhealthier it gets. The Mayo Clinic estimates that two tablespoons of half-and-half add about 37 calories. A tablespoon of sugar adds about 16 calories to your coffee. But that’s nothing compared to some of the drinks you can get at Starbucks or Dunkin. A Mocha Frappuccino from Starbies can have up to 520 calories.
Not to mention there are some negative side effects if you consume too much caffeine. Overconsumption of caffeine can cause effects like Insomnia, headaches, dehydration, and anxiety. Though, according to the National Library of Medicine, drinking as much as 400 milligrams of caffeine is fine for most people. Which, depending on the strength and size of your coffee, is about two to three cups.