As one of the most popular beverages in the world, coffee is a staple in many people’s daily routine. For some, it’s the go-to drink to kick-start their day, while others turn to it for a midday boost. However, there has been an ongoing debate about whether drinking multiple cups of coffee per day is unhealthy. In this article, we asked health experts to weigh in on the topic and provide their expert opinions.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that coffee contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that can have both positive and negative effects on the body. According to Dr. Rishi Sharma, a certified nutritionist and founder of Sharma Nutrition, “Moderate caffeine intake, which is about 200-300 milligrams per day, can have a positive impact on the body, including improving brain function, boosting metabolism, and reducing the risk of certain diseases.”
However, excessive caffeine intake can lead to negative side effects such as anxiety, jitteriness, and sleep disturbances. Dr. Sharma adds, “Consuming more than 500-600 milligrams of caffeine per day can cause adverse health effects such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and digestive issues.”
Dr. Gargi Sharma, a registered dietitian and founder of Dr. Gargi Sharma Nutrition Clinic, also emphasizes the importance of moderation. “Drinking multiple cups of coffee per day can be unhealthy if it exceeds the recommended daily caffeine intake,” she explains. “It’s important to remember that coffee isn’t the only source of caffeine. Other sources include tea, energy drinks, and certain medications.”
So, what is the recommended daily caffeine intake? According to the FDA, the safe daily limit for healthy adults is 400 milligrams, which equates to about 4 cups of coffee. However, this limit may vary depending on individual tolerance and sensitivity to caffeine.
It’s also worth noting that the type of coffee and how it’s prepared can affect its caffeine content. A single shot of espresso, for example, contains about 63 milligrams of caffeine, while a 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee can contain anywhere from 95 to 165 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the type and roast.
In conclusion, drinking multiple cups of coffee per day can be unhealthy if it exceeds the recommended daily caffeine intake. Experts recommend consuming no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is about 4 cups of coffee. It’s also important to be mindful of other sources of caffeine and to choose coffee types and preparation methods that align with personal caffeine tolerance and sensitivity. So, go ahead and enjoy your cup of joe, but remember to do so in moderation.