Three cups of coffee a day clears out your arteries and could help beat heart disease, according to a new study.

Scientists at the University of Sao Paulo took dietary information and Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) readings from more than 4,400 study participants, nearly all of whom drank coffee.

They found those who drank larger amounts of coffee had a lower CAC reading - meaning they had less calcium deposits in their arteries allowing for better blood flow.

However, researchers suggested to limit the intake to three cups a day because any more can be harmful.

“Other studies have already shown that excessive consumption of this beverage may not bring health benefits,” the study author, Andreia Miranda, said. “In our research, we found that habitual consumption of more than three cups a day of coffee decreased odds of coronary calcification.”