A quick search turned up a number of studies that agree that a moderate amount of caffeine (up to 300 or 400 mg/day) has little or no effect on bone density, and is not associated with increased bone fractures, as long as calcium intake is adequate. Here is a sample of the studies:
- A report from the Institute of Scientific Information on Coffee
- An abstract of a study in Food Chemistry & Toxicology
- A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- A study in the American Journal of Epidemiology
Common sense suggests that coffee in moderation can be included in a bone-building diet, if balanced by plenty of calcium, Vitamin D and other nutrients that help the body absorb calcium. You can start by holding the sugar, adding milk to your coffee, or eating an alkaline or calcium-rich snack (such as almonds or a piece of fruit).
So enjoy a hot, comforting and energizing cup of coffee in the morning. Especially on these cold, January days.