The Effect Of Drinking Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine, which has numerous effects on the nervous system and other bodily functions. Although moderate coffee consumption does not usually cause negative side effects, excessive amounts of caffeinated coffee can result in health problems. Consult your doctor if you have questions about your coffee drinking habits, particularly if you take any regular medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Beneficial Effects

Caffeinated coffee is a stimulant. This means that it stimulates the central nervous system, which may cause increased energy and focus. The caffeine in coffee also increases the metabolism, and may even make slight contributions to weight loss. According to the Harvard Medical School, a cup of coffee per day may also have additional health benefits, such as decreased risk of type 2 diabetes, gallstones, colon cancer, liver damage and Parkinson's disease. Coffee also contains antioxidants, which may help protect you from developing chronic disease and other health problems.

Negative Effects

Despite its health benefits, coffee remains a controversial beverage. According to Mayo Clinic preventive medicine specialist Donald Hensrud, studies have shown that coffee may contribute to elevated blood cholesterol levels, as well as increased chance of developing heart disease. However, most of the negative effects of coffee are attributed to its caffeine content, and many can be eliminated by drinking decaffeinated coffee. Some people are also more sensitive to caffeine than others, and may experience negative side effects such as nervousness, insomnia, quickened heart rate, irritability and stomach upset after consuming only a small amount of coffee.

Decaf vs. Regular

If you enjoy the taste of coffee but need to cut back on your caffeine intake, consider replacing some or all of your coffee consumption with decaffeinated products. Decaffeinated coffee tastes the same as regular coffee and contains the same antioxidants and nutrients. If you drink coffee frequently throughout the day, try making a pot of half-decaf coffee to avoid excessive caffeine intake. Use the same amount of coffee grounds as you would for a normal pot, but make at least half of it decaffeinated.

Recommended Amounts

Most healthy adults should limit their caffeine intake to between 200 mg and 300 mg per day, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is the equivalent of about two to four 8 oz cups of coffee. Consuming more than 500 mg or 600 mg of caffeine per day is considered excessive, and may cause unwanted side effects and health problems. This is the equivalent of about five to seven cups of coffee. If you need to cut back your coffee intake, do so gradually, since abrupt caffeine withdrawal can cause severe headaches, fatigue and irritability.