Coffee has long been revered as an energy boost and muscle builder, while also offering multiple health benefits including reduced risks of heart disease, improved digestion, and helping prevent diabetes. Now a study suggests that drinking three cups a day of coffee could add two years of life expectancy free from serious diseases or conditions.

This research, published in Ageing Research Reviews, reviewed 85 prior studies conducted across Europe, North America, Australia and Asia and comprising hundreds of thousands of participants. Researchers examined health indicators like inflammation and metabolism as well as factors like smoking and alcohol consumption to isolate coffee’s direct impact on longevity and mortality rates. Their results were remarkable. Researchers discovered that those who regularly consumed coffee had an extended “health span,” with benefits increasing with each sip taken. Researchers believe this may be attributed to antioxidants present in coffee; chemicals like chlorogenic acids and caffeine help combat oxidative stress that contributes to metabolic dysfunction as well as premature aging and death.

Regular coffee drinking has been linked with lower risks of type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and liver cancer. A few cups a day can also reduce depression and anxiety. It’s important to be mindful of any potential adverse side effects from caffeine use like jitters, digestive discomfort and insomnia – medical conditions like anxiety, panic disorder or high blood pressure may alter sensitivity to caffeine as well.

Coffee consumers had a 7% lower risk of type 2 diabetes compared to non-drinkers, and each cup consumed daily reduced that risk by 2%. Coffee may also help decrease liver cancer risks by decreasing harmful liver enzyme levels and restricting scar tissue formation; in addition, coffee may reduce cirrhosis risk from chronic liver damage which often results in death.

Studies have demonstrated that those who regularly consume three or more cups of coffee per day are less likely to develop Parkinson’s disease, depression and suicide. Furthermore, their risk may also decrease significantly. Note, however, that in order to experience the full benefits of coffee consumption it is recommended to drink four to five cups daily at an optimal level. Drinking more than the recommended limit could increase your risks of unwanted side effects such as anxiety, restlessness and insomnia or worsen certain medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or liver disease. Therefore, it is highly advised that you consult your physician to establish an optimal amount of coffee for you personally. An 8 oz cup of freshly brewed coffee contains about 100 mg of caffeine; most adults can tolerate up to 400 mg per day without experiencing adverse side effects.