In the intricate dance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, nutritionists and dietitians emphasize the importance of a well-balanced diet to ensure optimal bodily functions and ward off potential health issues. Part of this equation involves regulating the quantities consumed and the types of foods included in daily meals.
For many Spanish households, mornings, afternoons, and even evenings revolve around a cherished beverage—coffee. According to data from the ‘Coffee Consumption Habits in Spain’ report, consumers in our country indulge in an average of 3.6 cups of coffee per day during the weekdays.
In recent years, coffee has undergone a surge in popularity due to its unique specialties. Its diverse flavors and nuances have turned coffee into a resounding success in the commercial market. Aromas, tastes, acidity, body, or balance contribute significantly to the appeal of this export product in countries like Brazil, Colombia, Panama, Vietnam, and Colombia.
The Spanish Heart Foundation recently recommended coffee consumption, linking it to “greater longevity and increased overall population survival.” The study specifically outlined that it is healthy to consume up to four or five cups of coffee a day—an endorsement echoed by the ‘European Journal of Preventive Cardiology’ in September 2022.
Contrary to previous concerns, the quantities of coffee consumed are not associated with negative effects on the heart. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has detailed the recommended daily amount of coffee consumption.
Daily Coffee Consumption According to Experts
Nutrition experts from the FDA advise consuming 400 milligrams of caffeine per day—an amount also endorsed by the Spanish Heart Foundation.
On the European front, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set a maximum limit of 200 milligrams per day, equivalent to a maximum of three cups daily. Interestingly, a study from the University of Copenhagen affirmed that coffee with milk might have an anti-inflammatory effect.
The Consequences of Excessive Caffeine Intake
According to the FDA, a caffeine intake exceeding 1200 milligrams or 0.015 tablespoons of pure caffeine can lead to “toxic effects, such as seizures.”
The FDA emphasizes that surpassing recommended caffeine consumption levels may result in issues like anxiety, headaches, nausea, or insomnia. However, the administration clarifies that consuming a considerable amount of coffee “is not associated with negative and dangerous effects,” although a moderate intake of around four or five cups a day is suggested. It’s crucial to acknowledge that individual caffeine sensitivity varies, and the effects on the body also depend on whether the person is taking any medications.
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It’s worth noting that high-intensity workout supplements often contain a significant amount of caffeine, exceeding the 400 milligrams recommended by experts. These supplements, rich in protein, glutamine, and antioxidants, might pose a challenge for individuals striving to balance their caffeine intake within recommended limits.
