Is It Okay to Drink Coffee?

Does your day not officially start until you’ve had your cup of coffee? If so you’re not alone, for many of us coffee is more than just a drink, it's a ritual, a moment of comfort, and a boost of energy all in one cup. But with all the mixed messaging regarding caffeine, sleep disruption, and health risks, it’s easy to wonder: Is it actually okay to drink coffee?

As with most questions in nutrition, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While caffeine can offer some benefits, it also comes with a few things to keep in mind depending on your lifestyle and how your body reacts to caffeine. So let’s break it down, starting with why this beloved beverage has earned such a strong place in our daily routines.

Written by Sasha Tran

Reviewed by Heather Bray, RD

Why People Love Coffee

There are many reasons why people go to bed thinking about when they’ll get their morning cup of coffee. Whether you just enjoy the warm cup in hand during a quiet morning or it’s the mid-afternoon pick up that helps you power through a busy workday. Coffee shops have become a social hub—places to meet friends, work remotely, or just a place to take a break. There’s a psychological comfort tied to that familiar aroma and flavour which can make coffee feel like a pleasure.

Why Coffee Might Not Be Ideal

While you may love coffee, it isn’t the perfect fit for everyone. People who are sensitive to caffeine may experience symptoms like rapid heartbeat, jitteriness, anxiety, or digestive discomfort (such as heart burn) even after one small cup. It’s also very common for people to limit their caffeine intake after a certain time, as it may disrupt your sleep quality. Some people will have caffeine as soon as they wake up, while others can’t have caffeine on an empty stomach due to experiencing acid reflux or stomach irritation. 

How Much Coffee is Considered Safe?

According to Health Canada the safe amount of caffeine to consume in one day is 400 milligrams which is around 3 to 4 cups of brewed coffee. However everyone is different and depending on your genetics, pregnancy, medication interactions (such as antidepressants and thyroid medications), and personal sensitivity can all affect how much caffeine someone can comfortably tolerate. For example, pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised to limit their caffeine intake to no more than 300 mg per day. Listening to your body is key, if you have trouble sleeping or feel anxious it may be a sign to cut back.

Tips for Coffee Habits

Here are some tips to enjoy coffee in a more mindful way:

• Watch your timing: aim to drink coffee mid-morning instead of immediately waking up or late in the day to avoid sleep disruption.

• Stay hydrated: pair your coffee with water to avoid dehydration, especially if you drink multiple cups of coffee a day.

• Be mindful of portion sizes: a cup on nutrition labels equals 8 oz, but many coffee shops drinks range from 12-20 oz often with 2-3 shots of espresso or multiple pumps of syrup.

• Enjoy it mindfully: slow down and savour your coffee instead of drinking it on autopilot. Turning it into a moment of mindfulness can increase satisfaction with even a smaller amount.

Final Thoughts

Overall, coffee is okay to drink when enjoyed in moderation. It’s important to remember that everybody is different and tolerates caffeine differently, so it’s important to listen to your body and the signs it gives you when you consume coffee.