Moderate Coffee Intake Linked to Lower Risk of Heart Disease

For millions of people, the day doesn't truly begin until that first sip of coffee. And now, a new scientific review offers some welcome news for coffee lovers.

According to a scientific statement published in the journal Circulation, drinking up to five cups of caffeinated coffee a day, or about 400 milligrams of caffeine, is considered safe for most healthy adults. What's more, researchers found that moderate coffee consumption may even be linked to a lower risk of heart disease, heart failure and stroke.

However, experts say the same doesn't apply to all caffeinated drinks. Energy drink shots contain 40 to 69 milligrams of caffeine per fluid ounce, making them three to four times more concentrated than regular coffee. Because of this, consuming them in large amounts may increase the risk of high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms, particularly in people who are sensitive to caffeine.

The takeaway is simple that your daily coffee is unlikely to harm your heart if consumed in moderation. But when it comes to highly caffeinated energy drinks, it's worth thinking twice before reaching for another can.