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Is having 3 cups of coffee daily good for your mental health? Here's what researchers say

Coffee is an essential 'tool' for workaholics of the current decade. But, is having more than 2 cups of coffee sustainable for mental health? A recent study tells us something interesting.

By NES Web Desk

Mar 23, 2026 18:55 IST

Many people start their day with a cup of coffee. Whether during work breaks or casual conversations, coffee has become an integral part of their lives. But the question is, how beneficial is coffee for health? A recent study has shown that consuming coffee in moderation can be beneficial for mental health. Coffee particularly helps reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.

What does the research say?

Researchers from Fudan University in China conducted a study on more than 461,000 healthy adults. The results of this research, conducted over more than 13 years, were published in the Journal of Affective Disorders. It showed that people who drink 2-3 cups of coffee daily have the lowest risk of anxiety and depression.

Why are 2-3 cups ideal?

The research mentions a 'J-shaped relationship'. This means either you don't touch coffee at all, or you drink 2-3 cups of coffee daily. Only then will you get the benefits of coffee for your body. The research says that those who drink more than 3 cups of coffee daily did not receive any additional benefits. Rather, excessive coffee can have harmful effects on the body.

Does decaf coffee work the same way?

Nowadays, coffee is available in the market that contains no caffeine at all or very little. Does drinking this type of coffee provide any benefits? Research says there are no benefits to drinking decaf coffee. Actually, the caffeine compound in coffee brings multiple benefits to the body.

How does coffee keep mood good?

According to experts, caffeine has several important effects on the body:

• It acts as an antioxidant

• Helps reduce inflammation

• Keeps gut health good

• Helps control neurotransmitter activity in the brain

All of these combined can help coffee improve mood and reduce mental stress. However, it's also important to be cautious. Researchers have clearly stated that drinking coffee doesn't guarantee that mental problems won't occur. Besides, excessive coffee consumption can cause problems like sleep disruption, restlessness, or increased heart rate. Therefore, it's important to pay attention to quantity. Additionally, if mental problems become serious, expert help should be sought.

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