Here are some of the myths and truths about drinking coffee. Below is a chart based on how many cups are consumed per day, seriously who is drinking 6 CUPS per day?!
- Diabetes: Many studies find that coffee—decaf or regular—lowers the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, but caffeine raises blood sugar in people who already have it.
- Cancer: Earlier studies implicating coffee in causing cancer have been disproven; may instead lower the risk of colon, mouth, throat and other cancers.
- Heart disease: Long-term coffee drinking does not appear to raise the risk and may provide some protection.
- Hypertension: Caffeine raises blood pressure, so sufferers should be wary.
- Cholesterol: Some coffee—especially decaf—raises LDL, the bad kind of cholesterol.
- Alzheimer's: Moderate coffee drinking appears to be protective.
- Osteoporosis: Caffeine lowers bone density, but adding milk can balance out the risk.
- Pregnancy: Caffeine intake may increase the risk of miscarriage and low birth-weight babies.
- Sleep: Effects are highly variable, but avoiding coffee after 3 p.m. can avert insomnia.
- Mood: Moderate caffeine boosts energy and cuts depression, but excess amounts can cause anxiety.
Source: WSJ research
On a more fun note, here is The Oatmeal's take on coffee.
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