Drinking coffee is good for your health.

 "Drinking two to four cups of coffee a day is good for your health.

Drinking coffee is not bad for the heart, protects against aging, and reduces inflammation in the body," says Astrid Nehlig, Inserm's research manager emerita.

This drink, consumed daily by nearly 90 percent of French people, is the subject of many negative misconceptions: should we limit espresso consumption to stay in shape, or can we drink several a day without feeling guilty? The debate seems to have been settled: coffee contains many bioactive components that are actually good for our health, as explained by Astrid Nehlig, director emeritus of research at Inserm (Strasbourg) and president of ASIC (Association for Science and Information on Coffee). The author of "Café et santé" (published by EDP Sciences) also explains that espresso contains less caffeine than a filter coffee.

Is coffee our best friend or our worst enemy?

ASTRID NEHLIG. There are still too many misconceptions about coffee. Not only is it good for the heart, but it also has many health benefits. It gives the body and brain a boost without increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Several studies have shown that moderate consumption is associated with reduced mortality from all causes. As one of the foods richest in antioxidants, coffee protects against aging and reduces inflammation in the body. An interesting feature in the case of epidemics. Coffee alone accounts for 65% of the total amount of antioxidants consumed in a day. This reduces the risk of diabetes, heart attack, and stroke.

Isn't regular coffee consumption bad for the liver?

Analyzing the lifestyle and medical history of nearly four million people, European researchers showed last year that coffee is actually an ally of the liver: it reduces the risk of hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. It also slows the development of prostate, breast, uterine, and colon cancer. It also prevents Parkinson's disease and possibly Alzheimer's disease.

How much do you recommend?

With two to four cups of coffee a day you will reap all the benefits (half less for a pregnant woman). In addition, negative effects (nervousness, tachycardia, etc.) can result from too much caffeine. People sensitive to caffeine are better off choosing Arabica because it contains half as much as Robusta. And, contrary to popular belief, espresso is not "stronger" than a filter coffee. It contains about 60 mg of caffeine per cup, compared to the latter's 85-100 mg.