Daily coffee intake ‘cuts risk of diabetes, cancer and heart disease’

A daily cup of coffee can actually offer you a great deal of health benefits, according to experts. Primary care physician Dr. Alanna Levine revealed new research on the health perks of drinking coffee including lowering the risk of heart and depression.

Studies have shown that it may lower your risk for Type II diabetes and certain types of cancer (colon, mouth and throat), and protect against heart disease and cavities. Levine said that while researchers are not sure exactly why coffee has these benefits, they speculated that coffee has antioxidant properties to thank for the plus points.

"(The benefits are) shown in both decaf and regular coffee. It may not be the caffeine but antioxidants can decrease inflammation and cell damage. You don't have to feel guilty grabbing that cup of joe in the morning," CBS News quoted her as saying. However, Levine added that moderation is the key to maximizing the benefits of coffee.

"I wouldn't go chugging coffee all day long to decrease the risks of cancer. There are side effects of drinking coffee. I wouldn't advocate a constant infusion of coffee," she said.

Levine also said that certain people, such as diabetics, pregnant women and people who have trouble sleeping, should limit their coffee intake. She added that pregnant women should drink only one or two cups a day.