Drinking coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide and many people enjoy drinking it either to wake themselves up in the morning or to finish their day with a caffeinated buzz. However, many people wonder whether it can actually raise their heart rate and, if so, whether this could be dangerous. This article aims to answer this question and provide a comprehensive look at the potential effects of drinking coffee on heart rate.
Coffee contains caffeine and this may be the reason why it impacts your heart rate. According to research conducted by the American Heart Association, caffeine has a direct effect on the cardiovascular system. It increases the heart rate and can constrict the coronary arteries, meaning that there is less blood and oxygen reaching the heart. This can lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular problems in the long-term.
However, the effect of caffeine on the heart rate varies from person to person and the amount needed to increase a person’s heart rate will depend on their individual factors such as age, weight and lifestyle. A study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition in 2017 found that people who drank more than five cups of coffee per day experienced a higher increase in their heart rate than those who drank less than five cups per day.
Long-Term Effects
Long-term consumption of coffee can have serious consequences on heart health as the increased heart rate can put strain on the arteries and heart muscle. In fact, a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine in 2016 linked long-term consumption of coffee to an increased risk of coronary artery plaque buildup, which can lead to heart disease. In addition, research conducted by the International Life Sciences Institute found that habitual consumption of caffeinated beverages can lead to other serious health issues such as hypertension and arrhythmia.
However, the risk seems to be greater in people who have existing heart conditions. In 2017, a study conducted by the European Society of Cardiology found that those with existing heart conditions could experience more pronounced effects when consuming coffee, such as an increased heart rate and surge in blood pressure.
Short-Term Effects
While long-term health risks have been linked to coffee consumption, the effects of drinking coffee may also be seen in the short-term. For instance, an article published in Nature in 2010 found that participants who consumed an espresso had their resting heart rate increased by an average of 6.7 beats per minute. Similarly, a study published in the Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics in 2018 found that coffee consumption can also increase diastolic blood pressure, which is the bottom number of a blood pressure reading.
In addition, consuming too much caffeine can make people feel jittery and anxious. This may be the result of caffeine’s stimulant effects on the brain, which can make the heart beat faster and cause increased alertness. It can also lead to insomnia and trouble focusing.
Measures to Consider
It is important to note that everyone has different reactions to caffeine and so it is advisable to moderate your intake and monitor your own Heart rate. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 400mg of caffeine per day, which equates to around 4 cups of brewed coffee.It is also advisable to monitor your caffeine consumption in relation to your activities as this may impact your heart rate. For instance, shortly before exercising, you may wish to drink a smaller amount of caffeine than you would on a day when you are not exercising.
In addition, it is a good idea to observe your own heart rate and how it reacts to caffeine consumption. The American Heart Association recommends taking your resting heart rate for a few days before consuming any caffeine and then taking it again after consumption. If you find that your heart rate has increased significantly, it is best to reduce your caffeine consumption or even eliminate it from your daily routine.
Alternatives to Coffee
If you want something to get you energised that isn’t coffee, there are plenty of alternatives. For instance, green or black tea both provide natural alertness and energy which can last for several hours. Both teas contain smaller amounts of caffeine than coffee, meaning that it is less likely to have an impact on your heart rate. Other alternatives include herbal teas such as chamomile and rooibos, which can provide a relaxing effect while still delivering some energy.
In addition, some people find that exercise can provide the same effect as coffee without the increase in heart rate. A study published in 2018 found that participants experienced a surge in energy after moderate levels of exercise. This could mean that exercise could be a healthier alternative to coffee than trying to increase your energy levels through caffeine.
Considerations
Before considering drinking coffee or any other beverage containing caffeine, it is important to recognise the potential risks. As previously mentioned, caffeine can cause a rapid increase in heart rate and the effects can vary from person to person. Furthermore, depending on the individual’s lifestyle and health condition, regularly drinking coffee may increase the risk of developing heart-related issues in the long-term.
For those concerned about its effects on their heart rate, it is important to consult a doctor. A medical professional can provide advice on whether or not drinking coffee is suitable for an individual’s health. In addition, they may be able to recommend different strategies to help limit the potential health risks of drinking coffee.
Precautions
People who suffer from heart conditions may have to take particular precautions when drinking coffee. For instance, the American Heart Association recommends limiting one’s intake of caffeine or avoiding it altogether. This is especially important for people with conditions such as arrhythmia, hypertension or coronary artery disease as caffeine can worsen the symptoms of these conditions.
In addition, people who take certain medications almost always need to consult their doctor before drinking coffee. This is because caffeine can interact negatively with medicines such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medication, and diuretics. It can also worsen the side effects of other medications such as stomach upset, headaches, and insomnia.
Other Health Benefits
Despite the potential health risks associated with drinking coffee, there have been numerous studies which have suggested that coffee can have some positive health benefits. For instance, a study published in Nutrition Reviews in 2018 found that coffee consumption was linked to the improved cognitive performance of participants. In addition, a meta-analysis of 40 studies published in the British Medical Journal in 2017 found evidence which suggests that coffee may help to reduce the risk of liver cancer.
Furthermore, a study published in the journal Stroke in 2016 suggested that drinking coffee could also reduce the risk of stroke. The study found that participants who drank four cups of coffee a day were significantly less likely to suffer from a stroke than those who did not. While these studies suggest that drinking coffee can have some health benefits, these effects may be cancelled out by an increase in heart rate.
Summary
In summary, drinking coffee can have an effect on a person’s heart rate, depending on a number of individual factors such as lifestyle, age, and weight. Long-term consumption can have serious consequences while short-term consumption can cause increased alertness and heart rate. People should take precautions to ensure that they do not over-consume caffeine, especially if they have existing heart conditions or are taking medication. Despite the potential health risks, there is some evidence that coffee can have some health benefits.
