Amidst widespread warnings about overindulging in caffeine, coffee enthusiasts have reason to rejoice thanks to an NHS GP who recently shared her top ten reasons to indulge in the cherished brew.

Dr. Renee Hoenderkamp took to TikTok to highlight the myriad benefits of enjoying a good cup of coffee. “We often hear that coffee is harmful and should be limited or avoided,” she stated in her video. “However, while anything can be detrimental in excess, I adhere to the philosophy of ‘moderation,’ where caffeine can be beneficial.”

The GP and medical writer aimed to “redeem” the popular beverage. “Unless you’re consuming it by the gallon, coffee offers health advantages that may contribute to a longer life,” she asserted.

She added, “I adore coffee and typically have around five cups a day… sometimes even more. Moderate consumption is linked with increased lifespan and a reduced risk of premature death. Research indicates that caffeine may lower the likelihood of cardiovascular illness and mortality from any cause.”

Dr. Hoenderkamp also pointed out that coffee beans are rich in polyphenols, along with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which are released into the drink during the roasting and grinding process.

She went on to explain that dark-roasted coffee can mitigate DNA degradation, a natural occurrence that might lead to cancer or tumors if cellular repair doesn’t happen. “Less breakage means less disease,” she clarified, mentioning that both decaffeinated and regular coffee could potentially reduce colon cancer risk by up to 23% according to some studies.

The doctor further disclosed that caffeine helps the body manage blood sugar more effectively. “Coffee drinkers appear to be less likely to develop diabetes,” she stated, adding that the caffeine found in two cups of coffee might also offer protection against Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr Hoenderkamp highlighted another potential health advantage, saying: “Just one cup of coffee a day reduces your risk of a stroke – I am terrified of strokes as I have seen the disabling ability and the indignity it brings.”

And she also praised coffee’s “neurodegenerative protection qualities” – not only for Alzheimer’s, but for Parkinson’s disease as well. “Caffeine is linked to a lower chance of developing Parkinson’s disease and for those with the condition, better control of their movements,” Dr Hoenderkamp explained.

Meanwhile, the GP mentioned that regular decaffeinated coffee also seems to benefit the liver. “Research shows that coffee drinkers are more likely to have a healthy range of liver enzymes compared to people who don’t drink coffee,” she revealed.

Dr Hoenderkamp then delved into the topic of the microbiome – our body’s defence against bacteria. “Coffee drinkers have a more diverse microbiome and a healthy gut is a healthy human,” she stated.

In her final point on the benefits of coffee, the doctor cited recent research which found that two compounds in caffeine – kahweol and cafestol – inhibited the growth of prostate and kidney cancer cells in lab studies. Concluding, Dr Hoenderkamp reminded her followers: “Now remember, some people are more sensitive to the stimulant effects of caffeine and some are slower metabolisers – so be guided by your body and don’t overdo it.”

NHS guidance cautions that excessive caffeine intake (more than 600mg/day) can lead to anxiety, insomnia, agitation, palpitations, diarrhoea, and restlessness.