In February, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee gave coffee consumption the green light when it determined that moderate coffee consumption is not associated with increased long-term health risks. TIME reports, however, that the committee’s guidelines did not tell the whole story. The source notes that coffee consumers should still consider five factors when choosing how much to drink:
- Everyone is different. Listen to your body to determine how much is good for you.
- Current health matters. If you have ongoing medical conditions, ask your doctor about what’s best for your health.
- Think about your sleep. Stop drinking caffeine about six hours before bed.
- Genetics matters. You can find out how your body breaks down caffeine through a test with a registered dietician.
- Balance is key. Adding extra sugars and cream can add calories. Balance with drinking water.
