Is Coffee Good For Your Heart Health?

It's among the most popular beverages in the world, and for many of us, our day doesn't start until we've had our first cup. However, is coffee actually good for us?

One question that has received a lot of attention due to coffee's caffeine content is whether or not your java is good for your heart.

Health Benefits of Coffee

There are numerous health benefits to drinking coffee in moderation, according to the American Heart Association, that go beyond your heart health.

Here are some positive impacts health experts have found:

• Coffee is a low-calorie beverage that helps boost your metabolic rate, which is how your body produces energy.
• Coffee lowers your risk of certain diseases like Parkinson's disease and Type 2 diabetes.
• Since it's rich in antioxidants, coffee may help protect your cells from damage.
• Caffeine in coffee has been shown to improve mood, improve mental function and even help your performance during exercise.

For heart-specific benefits, studies have shown a link between caffeinated coffee and a lower risk of heart failure. However, there is not enough clear evidence to suggest coffee consumption leads to the same benefits as quitting smoking or regular exercise.

A study published online, which surveyed nearly 450,000 people about their health conditions and coffee habits over 12 years, found that those who drank two to three cups daily had the lowest risk of cardiovascular disease.

Coffee has also been linked to a lower risk of coronary heart disease in women.

Potential Downsides of Coffee

Like many things we consume, there is a limit to their health benefits, especially when combined with ingredients like or sugar or when ingested in excess.

The beneficial impacts of a couple cups of coffee per day can be negated if you enjoy its more sugary iterations.

Too much cream and sugar in your coffee can pile on the calories, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues that could negatively impact your cardiovascular health.

Additionally, drinking any caffeinated beverage in excess can be dangerous as it can interrupt your sleeping patterns and lead to serious fatigue, which can have cascading impacts on your overall health.

It's also important to be mindful that regularly consuming coffee can lead to withdrawal symptoms if you go without it.

Generally, experts recommend two to five cups of black coffee daily is the sweet spot for healthy consumption. If you're a habitual coffee drinker or looking for a morning pick-me-up, you should discuss with your doctor what the right daily amount is for you.