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5 cups of coffee a day can help keep doctor away, study says

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it seems that multiple cups of coffee a day can push the doctor away. 
a recent american heart association review finds that up to 400 milligrams of caffeine a day is generally safe for most adults.  
“caffeine consumed in coffee is a key part of daily life for millions of people,” says dr. gregory m. marcus. “for most adults, intake of up to 400 mg of caffeine a day, the equivalent of up to five cups of caffeinated coffee without added sugars or fillers, is safe and does not increase cardiovascular risk.” 
marcus is a professor of medicine and associate chief of cardiology for research at the university of california, san francisco. he is recognized for his clinical research on how lifestyle factors like caffeine and alcohol impact heart health. 

no liberties allowed

the aha scientific study, dated july 20, says that moderate coffee consumption was associated with lower risks of heart failure, coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, among other health benefits.  
both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee showed benefits, suggesting other bioactive compounds such as polyphenols may contribute. filtered coffee does not raise ldl cholesterol, unlike unfiltered brewing methods that retain cafestol. 
cafestol is a natural oily compound found in coffee beans that is known to raise blood cholesterol. 

multiple factors at work

age, genetics and metabolic rates also play a factor in how people react to caffeine dosages, meaning safe amounts vary from person to person.  
and for those into more lethal forms of caffeine dosages, the study echoes the inherent dangers of energy drinks as they can spike blood pressure and increase chances of irregular heart rhythm, even among the younger demographics of the population.  
“however, high doses of caffeine, such as those found in energy drinks, including energy shots, may have harmful effects on the heart and should be avoided,” the study said. “highdose caffeine sources like energy drinks often exceed this threshold and have been associated with cardiovascular strain, including elevated blood pressure and arrhythmias.” 
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gordon anderson
gordon anderson

i won’t pretend i grew up inspired by columnists, writers like steve simmons, damien cox and mary ormsby at the star or cathal kelly at the globe, and that is what led me here.

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