Is Coffee Good or Bad for Your Health?

Let’s break down what the science really says.

If you love coffee (like we do), you’ve probably seen headlines swinging both ways: “Coffee is a superfood!” or “Too much coffee is bad for you!” So what’s the truth?

The answer? When consumed in moderation and sourced responsibly, coffee is overwhelmingly good for your health. Here’s what science—and experience—tell us.


☕️ The Good News: Coffee Has Real Health Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Coffee is the largest source of antioxidants in many people’s diets, more than fruits or vegetables in some Western populations. → Source: Journal of Nutrition, 2005

These antioxidants help fight inflammation, neutralise free radicals, and support overall cellular health.

2. Supports Brain Health

Caffeine has been shown to improve mood, memory, reaction time, and cognitive function in the short term. Long-term coffee consumption may also lower the risk of neurological diseases. → Source: Harvard Health Publishing (2021), Johns Hopkins Medicine

Regular coffee drinkers are shown to have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. → Source: Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (2010), JAMA (2000)

3. May Lower Risk of Chronic Illness

Several large-scale studies have linked moderate coffee consumption (3–5 cups/day) to a reduced risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Heart disease
  • Liver cirrhosis and liver cancer

Sources: Annals of Internal Medicine (2017), BMJ (2019), American Heart Association

💡 At Tambia, we grow only high-quality Arabica beans, hand-picked and roasted with care—because what’s in the cup matters.


🧪 But Can Coffee Be “Bad” for You?

Like anything, coffee can have downsides—especially if it’s low quality or consumed in excess.

⚠️ Too Much Caffeine

Overconsumption can lead to:

  • Anxiety and restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Digestive upset
  • Increased heart rate

Source: Mayo Clinic (2023)

Most research supports a safe intake of up to 400mg of caffeine per day (roughly 3–5 cups of brewed coffee). But sensitivity varies from person to person.

⚠️ Sugary Additions

The health benefits of coffee disappear fast if it’s loaded with flavoured syrups, creamers, or whipped toppings. These add extra calories, sugar, and fat. → Source: Cleveland Clinic

⚠️ Low-Quality or Stale Coffee

Mass-produced, stale, or improperly stored coffee can contain mycotoxins (like ochratoxin A), which are more likely in lower-grade or poorly processed beans. → Source: Food and Chemical Toxicology Journal (2010)


🌱 How to Make Coffee Healthier

To enjoy coffee’s full benefits:

  • ✔️ Choose 100% Arabica, single-origin beans
  • ✔️ Look for traceability and ethical sourcing
  • ✔️ Drink it freshly roasted (ideally within 4–6 weeks of roast date)
  • ✔️ Limit added sugars and heavy creamers
  • ✔️ Enjoy in moderation

💛 At Tambia, we handle everything—from growing and processing on our Colombian farm to roasting in the UK—so you get the highest quality, every time.


☕ So… Is Coffee Good or Bad for You?

Good. When it’s good. Coffee, when responsibly sourced and thoughtfully enjoyed, is not only safe—it’s beneficial. Better coffee means better health outcomes, and a better relationship with what’s in your cup.

Back to blog