Research on Heart Disease and Coffee
Recent studies on the relationship between coffee and heart health have shone a positive light on the beloved beverage. Scientists, researchers, and medical professionals have all discussed the potential benefits of drinking coffee for heart health and many studies have concluded that moderate coffee consumption can be beneficial.
Dr. Ricardo Cruciani, Electrophysiologist and Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, explains that the relationship between caffeine and heart rate has been studied for decades and the data consistently demonstrates that it has no adverse effect on the heart. He states that when consumed in moderation, caffeine can have beneficial effects on the circulatory system, even lowering the risk of heart disease.
In a study published by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, research participants who consumed up to three cups of coffee per day experienced no raise in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. In addition, stress tests showed that the caffeine had no negative effect on the participant’s blood pressure levels. The study concluded that moderate coffee consumption produced no detrimental effects on the body.
Without a doubt, the research paints a positive picture for people with existing or potential heart conditions who want to drink coffee. Dr. Cruciani emphasizes that a person’s individual risk factors still remain the most important determinant of how coffee consumption specifically impacts their heart health.
Can People with Heart Disease Drink Coffee?
Though research has shown positive results, coffee consumption is not always the best option for everyone. Dr. Luigi Elia, Cardiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Associate Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University, warns that caffeine has been linked with atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and other problems depending on the person’s individual health condition.
Dr. Elia believes that people with pre-existing heart conditions should also be mindful of their other behaviors such as drinking alcohol, smoking, and engaging in various activities that can increase their risk of a heart attack or stroke. It’s important to talk to your doctor to determine the safety of a particular activity.
In general, doctors will advise to limit coffee consumption to one or two cups per day. People who already have heart problems should only start drinking coffee in moderation, as it can interact with certain medications and lead to potential side effects.
People with High Blood Pressure and Caffeine
Hypertension is one of the most common causes of heart problems, so it’s important to be cautious when drinking coffee. Dr. Saima Aslam, Cardiologist at Cleveland Clinic, explains that while research suggests coffee is beneficial, it can worsen high blood pressure.
Though caffeine has been said to naturally increase blood pressure, Dr. Aslam emphasizes that the effects are typically temporary and well managed by the body. However, if someone has pre-existing hypertension, it can cause a substantial increase in blood pressure. In addition, caffeine can interfere with medications for those with high blood pressure and cause numerous side effects.
Dr. Aslam states that the overall risk is low for healthy individuals who drink a moderate amount of coffee. But people should discuss their needs with their doctors and monitor their blood pressure regularly so they can be aware of any potential effects.
Anxiety, Coffee, and Heart Health
Though the effects of caffeine on heart health are typically positive, individuals who are susceptible to anxiety or panic attacks should be mindful of how much they are consuming. Anxiety affects heart rate and can also put added strain on the heart.
Dr. Stuart H. Ginn, Cardiologist at Healthgrades, advices that anyone with anxiety should limit their coffee consumption to one cup per day and to better manage the body’s response by drinking water and engaging in relaxation techniques such as meditation.
Dr. Ginn also explains that artificial sweeteners found in certain caffeinated beverages have been known to cause reactions in people with sensitive systems that can mean an increase in heart palpitations, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and anxiety. It is important to be mindful of these ingredients as they can also have an effect on one’s heart health.
Caffeine and Caffeinated Drinks
Though coffee is beneficial for heart health, caffeinated drinks such as energy drinks, soda, and tea may be more beneficial in promoting heart health when it comes to caffeine consumption. Dr. William Harrington, Cardiologist at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and Professor of Medicine at Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine, explains that energy drinks can have various ingredients such as sugar and taurine that contribute to their healthfulness.
He recommends that individuals who are at risk of heart-related problems should substitute their morning cup of joe for caffeinated beverages with a mix of vitamins and ginseng root or green tea to get the same energy boost without the potential negative effects of high caffeine intake.
Ginseng root and green tea are packed full of antioxidants such as flavonoids and polyphenols that can help protect your heart. Moreover, green tea contains a compound called theanine, which has been proven to reduce stress, lower high blood pressure, and help with heart-related conditions.
Nutrition and Coffee Consumption
It’s important to remember that the benefits of drinking coffee don’t just come from the caffeine. The best way to maintain heart health is through nutrition and lifestyle changes and Dr. Yefim Sheynkin, professor at Stony Brook University, explains that drinking coffee can be a part of that.
Dr. Sheynkin states that drinking coffee can help decrease the risk of stroke and heart attack when it is a part of a balanced and healthy diet. He recommends foods that are high in fiber like fruits and vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and polyunsaturated fats. He also emphasizes that any coffee consumption should be reduced if the individual is experiencing strain or fatigue.
Moderation is Key for Heart Health
When dealing with heart-related conditions, it’s important to be mindful of the factors that can worsen them. Still, when consumed in moderation, coffee can be considered healthy for the heart.
Dr. Casio J. Wiliams, Cardiologist at Strong Memorial Hospital and Assistant Professor of Cardiology at University of Rochester, believes that coffee doesn’t necessarily need to be consumed for heart health, but if it is, it should be done in moderation.
It is important to note that coffee should not be used as a substitute for proper medications or treatments. Drinking coffee can be beneficial as part of one’s overall practice for maintaining a healthy heart, but it won’t cure any existing conditions.
Should Coffee Co-Exist With Heart Conditions?
Studies have undeniably shown the potential benefits of drinking coffee with heart conditions, but one should always be mindful of their own individual situation. The effects of coffee can differ depending on a person’s risk factors and overall health.
Medical professionals emphasize that co-existing with coffee and a heart condition should be explored under the guidance of a primary care physician and by monitoring one’s own physical response.
Nobody should replace over-the-counter medications or treatments with coffee consumption. The most important thing is to be aware of the potential symptoms and to seek out help from a medical professional. It’s important to remember that coffee should be consumed in moderation and if consumed in excess, can lead to negative health effects.
