C O F F E E   A N D   H E A L T H
Coffee is better for the body than its reputation suggests. Scientists dismiss many long-held claims and prejudices as old wives' tales. We now know that coffee has the following effects on the human body:
Normal amounts of caffeine, the most important active ingredient in coffee, in say three to six cups of coffee a day, are harmless to a healthy person. Contrary to earlier contentions, several studies have shown that caffeine is neither addictive nor damaging to the heart and circulatory system; neither does it raise cholesterol levels. The body does not accumulate caffeine and, unlike alcohol, it does not trigger chemical changes in the organism.
Coffee does increase perceptive faculties and attentiveness and lifts moods. Because of its strengthening effects, caffeine is even used in painkillers such as aspirin. Some of the constituents in coffee have a stimulating effect on muscles and on the stomach and digestive system. It activates fat burning and provides some of the body's daily requirements of trace elements such as iron and magnesium. In addition, remnants from the roasting process stimulate the production of gastric acid and other digestive secretions which explains the pleasant effects of a cup of coffee after a meal.

Excessive consumption, which varies a lot between individuals, can, however, trigger sleeplessness and agitation. With some diseases, such as arrhythmia, duodenal ulcers or overactive thyroid glands, it might be necessary to cut down or stop drinking coffee.
A typical coffee-bar espresso: contains around 50 milligrams caffeine
One can of energy drink: around 80 milligrams
One can of cola: around 40 milligrams
One cup of tea: 30-50 milligrams
One bar of dark chocolate: around 100 milligrams