This is the exact number of coffees you should drink a day in order to stay healthy

Coffee contains a number of nutrients that are good for the body. As part of a balanced diet, it contributes to the necessary daily energy intake. What's more, caffeine stimulates the nervous system, reduces drowsiness and improves concentration. It also contains antioxidants to help prevent cell ageing, vitamins B2 and B3, and magnesium. However, in high doses, it can cause undesirable effects.

How many coffees a day?

A 2015 statement from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) states that:

(an) intake of up to 400mg per day, consumed throughout the day, do not raise safety concerns for healthy adults in the general population

This dose corresponds to roughly to 5 espressos or 4 large cups of coffee a day.It is important to specify that the caffeine content of a coffee may vary from one variety to another.
EFSA also states that for pregnant or breastfeeding women, 'consuming up to 200 mg [...] throughoutthe day does not raise safety concerns for the foetus.'

So be reasonable and don't exceed your 4 or 5 cups a day! And, if you're pregnant, you have to divide this by 2.

Read more:This is how your body reacts to coffee hours after drinking it

The harmful effects of coffee

Although quite beneficial when consumed in moderation, coffee can have consequences on your health. Caffeine can cause insomnia, agitation, headaches and acid reflux.

What's more, if on top of consuming a large quantity of coffee you are a smoker and live a sedentary lifestyle, a number of studies have shown that you could be more easily exposed to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, certain liver diseases, as well as degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and strokes.

These risks are mainly linked to an overall unhealthy lifestyle.

This article has been translated from OMMFR.

Read more: Coffee: Here's the unexpected reason why you should never drink it early in the morning

Sources:

UEFSA: Caféine: combien peut-on en consommer sans risque ?

INSERN: Caféine : des effets à long terme sur les cellules du cerveau

May Clinic: Caffeine: How much is too much?