Sure, the caffeine could send you into orbit, and if you're not careful, coffee can stain your teeth. But new research suggests that your must-have morning beverage is actually beneficial to your health in a number of ways.

"Scientific evidence now suggests that moderate coffee consumption 3 to 5 cups a day may be associated with reduced risks of certain disease conditions," says Roger A. Clemens, food expert with the Institute of Food Technologists. Alzheimer's disease, kidney stones, depression and others all may be effected by drinking coffee regularly.

Some research also suggests that coffee acts as a preventative agent against cancer and Parkinson's disease. In fact, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing Parkinson's by half simply by drinking one cup a day.

Good news for me, as I'm on my fourth cup, and it's not even lunch.