How much coffee a day is safe for the heart?

A new study finds a link between more than 400mg of caffeine per day and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease even in healthy people.

Drinking too much coffee can be harmful even to healthy people. (Illustration: AI)

“Regular caffeine consumption can disrupt the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased blood pressure and heart rate,” explained Nency Kagathara, lead author of the study from Zydus Medical College and Hospital in India. The results of the analysis were presented in early August at the American College of Cardiology conference in Delhi, India.

Kagathara's team measured the blood pressure and heart rate of 92 healthy adults after they performed a three-minute walking test. The volunteers, aged 18 to 45, had normal blood pressure at the start of the experiment.

Nearly 20% of participants consumed more than 400 mg of caffeine per day, equivalent to about four cups of coffee, 10 cans of soda, or two energy drinks. Over time, this group experienced increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Urban women in managerial and business positions consume the highest daily caffeine intake, says author Kagathara.

People who consumed more than 600 mg of caffeine per day had a significant increase in heart rate and blood pressure. “Raising awareness of the risks of coffee is important to improve cardiovascular health for everyone,” Kagathara said.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says that less than 400 mg of caffeine per day “usually does not cause harmful, negative effects.” However, the health agency acknowledges that some people are more sensitive to caffeine and that people metabolize caffeine differently.

High blood pressure is associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and dementia.

Experts recommend regular exercise and a healthy diet to lower blood pressure. If weight loss, diet changes, and exercise don’t work, medication may be needed.

Dr. AS Benjamin Hirsh, Head of Preventive Cardiology at North Shore University Hospital (USA), assessed the results of the study as interesting: “People will be aware that over time, drinking too much coffee can be dangerous for the heart, increasing blood pressure and heart rhythm disorders. Relying on caffeine can increase productivity and help you stay awake, but health must always come first.”

Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee that can boost the production of the stress hormones norepinephrine and epinephrine, which increase heart rate and blood pressure by constricting blood vessels. But caffeine has also been shown to improve mood and reduce the risk of certain cancers, among other benefits.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/uong-bao-nhieu-ca-phe-moi-ngay-la-an-toan-cho-tim-282930.html