Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world and it has been shown to have several health benefits. However, excessive consumption of coffee can lead to several health problems, including high cholesterol levels.

In this article, we will explore how much coffee is too much for your cholesterol levels.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a substance found in the blood that plays an important role in the body. It is necessary for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and cell membranes.

However, when levels of cholesterol are too high, it can lead to several health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

Types of Cholesterol

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein).

LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, because it can build up in the walls of the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). HDL is often referred to as “good” cholesterol, because it helps remove LDL from the blood and reduces the risk of heart disease.

How Coffee Affects Cholesterol Levels?

Coffee contains substances known as diterpenes, which are believed to increase cholesterol levels in the blood. These substances are found in high levels in unfiltered coffee, such as French press or Turkish coffee.

On the other hand, filtered coffee, such as drip coffee, contains lower levels of diterpenes and may not have as much of an effect on cholesterol levels.

Related Article The correlation between coffee intake and bad cholesterol

Research Studies on Coffee and Cholesterol

A study conducted in Norway, which included 508 men and women, found that those who drank five or more cups of unfiltered coffee per day had significantly higher levels of LDL cholesterol compared to those who drank filtered coffee or no coffee at all. Another study conducted in Spain, which followed 1,056 people over a period of 10 years, found that those who drank four or more cups of coffee per day had a higher risk of high cholesterol levels compared to those who drank less coffee.

How Much Coffee is Too Much?

There is no specific limit on how much coffee a person should drink, as it depends on several factors, including age, weight, gender, and overall health status.

However, as a general guideline, it is recommended that adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to about four cups of coffee. It is important to note that the caffeine content in coffee can vary depending on the type of coffee and how it is brewed.

Other Health Benefits of Coffee

Despite its potential effects on cholesterol levels, coffee has several health benefits and can be part of a healthy diet.

Studies have shown that coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of several diseases, including type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and liver disease.

Conclusion

In summary, excessive consumption of coffee, especially unfiltered coffee, can lead to high cholesterol levels. As a guideline, adults should consume no more than 400mg of caffeine per day.

However, coffee also has several health benefits and can be part of a healthy diet. It is important to make informed choices and balance the potential risks and benefits of coffee consumption.