Coffee consumption linked to mental health and weight benefits

Research indicates that moderate coffee consumption, specifically two to three cups per day, may offer significant health benefits, including improved mental health and weight management.

A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, utilizing data from 461,586 UK Biobank participants, identified a “J-shaped” relationship between coffee intake and mental health. The findings suggest that consuming two to three cups daily is associated with a lower risk of stress, depression, and anxiety. However, these benefits diminish with excessive consumption; drinking five or more cups per day is linked to a higher risk of mood disorders.

Nutritionist Morgan L Walker noted that exceeding moderate caffeine limits can lead to negative side effects such as poor sleep quality and increased restlessness, particularly in sensitive individuals. Additionally, black coffee without added sugar is highlighted as a beneficial tool for weight management due to its negligible calorie content and high concentration of antioxidants and bioactive compounds like polyphenols and chlorogenic acid.