Long-term high coffee consumption increases risk of heart disease, study says

Coffee is a necessary energy boost for many of us every morning. But should we worry when a few cups aren’t enough? Recent research suggests that chronic high coffee consumption may be linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure and heart rate, which increases the risk of heart disease.

According to the latest test As presented at the ACC Asia 2024 conference in Delhi, India, consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine per day increases the risk of heart disease in generally robust people.

By chronic consumption, the researchers meant consuming caffeinated beverages five days a week for more than a year. A typical dose of 400 mg of caffeine is equivalent to four cups of coffee, ten cans of soda, or two energy drinks.

Researchers assessed the effects of caffeine on blood pressure and heart rate in a group of 92 robust, normotensive individuals aged 18 to 45. Each participant’s blood pressure and heart rate were measured one minute and five minutes after completing a three-minute step test. The researchers also recorded sociodemographic data and the participants’ daily caffeine intake.

About 19.6% of participants consumed more than 400 mg of caffeine per day. Of these, the highest intake was recorded in women, people employed in business and management positions, and people living in urban areas.

“Long-term caffeine consumption at a dose of 400 mg per day has been shown to have significant effects on the autonomic nervous system, over time causing increases in heart rate and blood pressure,” the press release reads.

Daily consumption of more than 600 mg of caffeine significantly increases heart rate and blood pressure after five minutes of rest after the step test. Elevated blood pressure and heart rate over a longer period of time weaken the heart and augment the risk of heart disease.

“Regular caffeine consumption can disrupt the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to increased blood pressure and heart rate. Our study aimed to determine the effects of chronic caffeine consumption on heart health, specifically on the recovery of heart rate and blood pressure,” lead author Dr. Nency Kagathara said in a press release.

“Because of its effects on the autonomic nervous system, regular caffeine consumption may put robust individuals at risk for hypertension and other cardiovascular events. Increasing awareness of these risks is key to improving heart health for everyone,” Dr. Kagathara said.