What are the Benefits and Disadvantages of Drinking Coffee?

Learn about the potential benefits & disadvantages associated with drinking coffee & how you can consume it safely & responsibly.

What are the Benefits and Disadvantages of Drinking Coffee?

Caffeine is a stimulant that enters the bloodstream quickly and reaches the brain, where it increases alertness and energy levels. It does this by blocking receptors for a neurotransmitter called adenosine, which increases levels of other neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate energy levels, including dopamine. Regular coffee consumption may be associated with a decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the long term. A review of 30 studies found that every cup of coffee people consumed a day was linked to a 6% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Coffee is also rich in antioxidants and can affect insulin sensitivity, inflammation and metabolism, all of which are involved in the development of type 2 diabetes. Caffeine consumption has also been linked to a lower risk of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. A review of 13 studies found that people who used caffeine on a regular basis had a significantly lower risk of developing Parkinson's disease, while a review of 11 observational studies involving more than 29,000 people found that the more coffee people consume, the lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Coffee could also alter fat storage and support gut health, which may be beneficial for weight management.

A review of 12 studies concluded that increased coffee consumption could be associated with a decrease in body fat, especially in men, while coffee intake was associated with a decrease in body fat in women. In addition, one study found that people who drank one or two cups of coffee a day were 17% more likely to achieve recommended levels of physical activity, compared to those who drank less than one cup a day. Research has also shown that drinking coffee is linked to a lower risk of depression. A study involving more than 200,000 people showed that drinking coffee was linked to a lower risk of death by suicide.

Another study found that drinking at least four cups of coffee a day was associated with a significantly lower risk of depression, compared to drinking just one cup a day. Coffee consumption has also been linked to lower rates of liver scarring and liver cancer in people with liver disease. A study found that drinking more than two cups of coffee a day was linked to lower rates of liver scarring and liver cancer in people with liver disease. In addition, research shows that the more coffee people drink, the lower the risk of death from chronic liver disease.

Drinking one cup of coffee a day was linked to a 15% lower risk, while drinking four cups a day was linked to a 71% lower risk. Coffee consumption has also been associated with a decrease in the risk of heart disease and stroke. A review found that drinking three to five cups of coffee a day was linked to a 15% reduction in risk of heart disease, while another review of 21 studies showed that drinking three to four cups of coffee a day was associated with a 21% lower risk of stroke. In addition, research in more than 21,000 people showed that increased coffee intake was associated with a significant decrease in the risk of heart failure. However, keep in mind that caffeine could affect blood pressure levels. Therefore, people with uncontrolled blood pressure may need to limit or moderate their consumption of caffeine.

Moderation is key when it comes to coffee consumption; moderation of three to four cups per day has been associated with several health benefits and is generally considered safe for most adults. Bulletproof coffee is another popular way to consume coffee; it is made by adding butter and oil (MCT) to morning coffee drinks. Here are 3 possible disadvantages of bulletproof coffee: it can become an addiction if consumed every day without thought; it can lead to weight gain if consumed regularly; and it can increase cholesterol levels if consumed regularly. Overall, there are many potential benefits associated with drinking coffee in moderation. It can help increase alertness and energy levels, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and certain neurological diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, reduce body fat levels, improve physical performance and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, it is important to remember that caffeine can affect blood pressure levels and should be consumed in moderation.

Glenna Matthys
Glenna Matthys

Hardcore internet practitioner. Wannabe beer advocate. Infuriatingly humble beer expert. Devoted coffee evangelist. Hardcore social media scholar. Friendly beer fanatic.