No. Moderate coffee is generally fine
No, for most adults moderate coffee drinking (about 3 to 4 cups a day) is not harmful and is linked to lower risks of several diseases. Some people, such as those with certain conditions or who are pregnant, should limit it.
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Most evidence is observational, so it cannot prove causation, but it is consistent across many large studies and populations, and randomized trials show no major harm at moderate intake. IARC removed coffee from its list of possible carcinogens in 2016. Effects vary by individual because of genetic differences in caffeine metabolism, and by what is added to the coffee. Excess intake, late-day drinking, or certain conditions (pregnancy, arrhythmias, anxiety, reflux) can make coffee a poor choice for some people, but for the typical adult it is not bad for health and may be mildly beneficial.
- Large cohort studies and meta-analyses link 3 to 4 cups a day with lower all-cause mortality and lower risk of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease and liver disease.
- Health authorities such as the EFSA and FDA consider up to about 400 mg of caffeine a day (around 4 cups) safe for most healthy adults.
- Pregnant people are advised to limit caffeine to about 200 mg a day.
- Caffeine can cause insomnia, anxiety, jitteriness and raised heart rate in sensitive people.
- Unfiltered coffee (e.g. French press) can modestly raise LDL cholesterol, and added sugar and cream can make coffee drinks unhealthy.