Moderate coffee consumption associated with reduced all-cause and cause-specific mortality across diverse populations: study

The review article published in ‘Nutrients’ journal by Ryan C. Emadi et al examines coffee’s multifaceted impact on health and wellbeing, drawing on decades of research. Overall, the consensus is that moderate coffee intake is more beneficial than harmful across a wide range of health outcomes. Numerous large-scale, prospective cohort studies from around the world have consistently shown that moderate coffee consumption—typically three to five cups per day—is associated with reduced overall mortality and lower risk of major diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, respiratory conditions, cognitive decline, and potentially several types of cancer, including liver and uterine cancers. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee have shown benefits. The addition of sugar and cream to coffee may attenuate coffee’s positive health effects. Despite historical concerns, coffee consumption is not linked to increased risks of cancer, hypertension, or arrhythmia. However, some concerns remain. For pregnant women, coffee consumption should be limited to lower amounts, such that the daily intake of caffeine does not exceed 200 mg/day. Also, excessive caffeinated coffee intake may cause anxiety or sleep disturbances. The five salient mechanisms responsible for improved health are glucose balancing effects, increased physical activity, increased fat oxidation, improved lung function and reduced inflammation. Coffee’s health-promoting mechanisms include improved glucose balancing, increased physical activity, increased fat oxidation, improved lung function, and reduced inflammation. Beyond mortality and chronic diseases, coffee consumption affects many aspects of well-being: it supports hydration, boosts mental acuity, enhances physical performance, and may aid bowel recovery after surgery. The authors concluded that – “coffee improves some other aspects of well-being, such as mental alertness, physical performance, and hydration, further enhancing its role in daily functioning and well-being. Although most evidence comes from observational studies, the consistency of findings across settings adds to their credibility. Future research—especially randomized controlled trials and genetic studies—will help clarify unanswered questions and identify subgroups that may benefit most or require caution. In sum, coffee, when consumed in moderation and tailored to individual tolerance, appears to be a health-promoting beverage.” Further reading: Coffee’s Impact on Health andWell-Being Ryan C. Emadi and Farin Kamangar Nutrients 2025, 17, 2558 https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152558