A lot of people like to enjoy a hot cup of coffee in the morning, but when does it become dangerous for our health?
In the UK, people gulp down 98 million cups of the fragrant bean drink each day, and while there’s actually data to back up that there’s some correlation between regular coffee consumption and healthier ageing, there’s also a point where you end up drinking too much to be beneficial.
This doesn’t mean that drinking coffee is wrong, but moderation is key.
Doctor Zoe Williams, a known health expert who regularly shares her tips on living a better life, has now come out to reveal the latest advice on the number of cups of coffee you can safely drink in a day.
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If you thought there was no limit, you’re unfortunately wrong.
Williams, a resident This Morning doctor, went on to explain to hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard that the Food Standards Agency has advised that each person should only consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day.
Dr Williams told the shocked hosts: “That’s four cups of coffee you make at home with instant, or two barista coffees as they use a double shot, so no more than that.”
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The doctor went on to share that too much coffee can impair a person’s judgement, increasing the likelihood of them being involved in a road accident, but also having just one cup could prevent accidents from occurring.
But how do you know if you’re drinking too much?
Sarah Carolides, Head of Nutrition at Zooki.com, shared some signs that happen when you’re taking part in caffeine overconsumption.
She said we all metabolise coffee differently, so it’s all down to the individual.
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"There are a couple of genes that mean you are either a fast metaboliser or a slow metaboliser of coffee," Carolides told FOODbible's sister page UNILAD.
"[If] I had a coffee now, after two o'clock, I will be up to at least midnight. I'm a slow metaboliser.
"My husband is fast metaboliser. He can have a double espresso after dinner and be out five minutes later, and it doesn't interrupt his sleep at all."
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Carolides revealed that those with fast metabolisms may benefit from having up to four coffees a day.
For those with slower metabolisms, drinking less than that is probably for the best.
As for if you should quit it entirely, she asked if it controls you.
If so, then you should steer clear of it in the future.
Britt Jones