As one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, researchers have been exploring the effects of coffee on heart health. Recent studies present mixed results, suggesting that while moderate coffee consumption may offer protective benefits, excessive caffeine intake can also pose risks.
Recent research has shed light on coffee’s potential effects on cardiovascular health, generating renewed interest and important perspectives. Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of diabetes and heart diseases. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that consuming 200-300 mg of caffeine daily (about 2-3 cups of coffee) could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke by up to 48%.
Registered dietitian Melani Murphy Rektor highlighted caffeine’s role in improving insulin sensitivity, supporting heart health, while interventional cardiologist Dr. Cheng-Han Chen noted the potential benefits of other compounds in coffee, such as flavonoids and polyphenols.
Excessive Caffeine Increases Cardiovascular Risk: Another study presented at the ACC Asia 2024 conference linked high caffeine consumption (around 400 mg daily or four cups of coffee) to an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Lead researcher Dr. Nancy Kagathara warned that chronic caffeine intake could affect the autonomic nervous system, heightening the risks of heart diseases.
Coffee and Stroke Risk: A study published in The Journal of Stroke found that drinking more than four cups of coffee daily could increase the risk of stroke by 37%. However, moderate consumption of coffee and tea (3-4 cups of black tea daily) was associated with a decreased risk of stroke, indicating regional differences in the results.
New Research and Coffee’s Effect on Arteries: A study from Queen Mary University in London found no significant difference in arterial stiffness between individuals who consumed high or low amounts of coffee. This suggests that moderate to high coffee consumption may not harm vascular health as previously feared. Researchers noted that the high consumption group averaged five cups a day, with some participants drinking up to 25 cups.
Expert Opinions: Professor Matten O’Kern of the British Heart Foundation emphasized that, although coffee’s effects on heart health vary, recent findings reassure that regular coffee consumption does not contribute to arterial stiffness. Still, moderation remains key. Dr. Christopher Yee, a vascular surgeon, advised that due to coffee’s complex effects, “moderation is the safest limit.”
These findings underscore that while coffee may offer health benefits, excessive consumption could negate these benefits, particularly for those with pre-existing heart conditions or high blood pressure. Researchers continue to explore safe caffeine limits to guide those who enjoy coffee for health reasons.
