Study: 3 to 4 Cups of Coffee Offers Major Health Benefits

Along with water, coffee is one of the world's most popular beverages. Statistics show that more than 60% of all men and women in the United States drink this delicious beverage. While some people drink it to increase their energy levels and ward off fatigue, others drink coffee for its health benefits -- of which it has plenty.

According to a new study published in the medical journal BMJ, drinking three to four cups of coffee a day can protect against a myriad of diseases. For the study, researchers conducted a meta-analysis of more than 200 existing studies investigating the link between coffee and health. Researchers concluded that people who drank three to four cups a day had lower rates of heart disease, Parkinson's disease, dementia, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, cancer and even death.

Of course, this isn't the first study suggesting that coffee is a beneficial beverage. Spanish researchers conducted a separate study earlier this year. They found that people who consumed four or more cups of coffee a day were 64% less likely to die from all causes than their counterparts who refrained from drinking the beverage. This doesn't necessarily mean that coffee will instantly improve your health or extend your lifespan. However, the results from these and other studies are certainly promising.

It's unknown how or why coffee offers such amazing health benefits. With that said, some researchers theorize that its benefits are attributed to its high antioxidant content. Coffee contains natural free-radical-fighting compounds known as antioxidants. You see, these antioxidants work to neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing them from damaging cells and subsequently contributing to disease or illness.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you want to reap the health benefits of coffee. First and foremost, limit the amount of sugar and cream you add to your coffee. While coffee can certainly offer some notable health benefits, pouring heaps of processed sugar into it may negate these benefits. 

Additionally, you should consume in coffee in moderation. Too much of anything can be bad for your health, and coffee is no exception. Most research, including the studies mentioned above, identified a cut-off point for coffee's health benefits. Drinking five or more cups of coffee, for instance, may increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart palpitations; therefore, you should limit yourself to consuming no more than four cups a day.