Coffee is one of the most famous beverages worldwide. More than 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed worldwide each day. That’s why many people appreciate coffee for the energy it brings. But, its effects on the heart are often debated and questioned. However, recent studies indicate that medium coffee consumption does not pose a risk to one’s cardiovascular health.
On the other hand, it offers several advantages. Of course, pre-existing heart problems, sensitivity to caffeine, and one’s overall lifestyle can change these effects. So, what’s the truth? Is coffee good for health or not? Let’s know its real impact from a cardiologist from Arizona.
The Nutritional Effects of Coffee on Your Heart
Beyond caffeine, coffee offers a wealth of nutrients, including antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds fight inflammation and protect blood vessels. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals that harm heart tissues, while polyphenols maintain blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
However, it is advised to drink coffee in moderation. If you do so, these compounds may lower the risk of heart disease. To gain a deeper insight into all the benefits, consulting a cardiology specialist can be helpful.
Heart Health Advantages of Drinking Coffee
Besides its energising effects, coffee also shields your heart. A recent study showed that dawn coffee drinkers had a 16% lower risk of death from any reason relative to non-drinkers. These statistics highlight the essential cardiovascular benefits of coffee, especially when consumed under the guidance of a cardiologist in Buckeye.
Maintain Cholesterol
Coffee is rich in antioxidants that can aid maintain healthy cholesterol levels. These antioxidants may protect against the buildup of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the arteries. This, in turn, helps mitigate long-term heart complications.
Improve Metabolism
Coffee enhances metabolism and energy in your body. So, when you have a better metabolism, it helps the heart’s circulation and its function. Additionally, it supports weight management, a crucial aspect of maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Reduce Heart Inflammation
Coffee’s polyphenols have anti-inflammatory properties. They can reduce inflammation in the arteries. It lowers the likelihood of plaque accumulation. This has a positive effect on blood flow and lowers the risk of heart disease.
Help Preventing Heart Failure
Do you know that moderate coffee drinkers have a 31% decreased risk of dying from heart disease? Yes, regular consumption can aid the heart’s pumping capacity. A cardiology specialist Goodyear, always suggests coffee to reduce the long-term risk of heart failure.
Keep Your Liver Enzymes at a Good Level
Coffee is effective in managing liver enzymes, which play a crucial role in processing cholesterol and fats. A functioning liver ensures good cardiovascular health, which further strengthens the heart’s power.
Potential Risks of Drinking Coffee for Your Heart
There are potential benefits for heart health with drinking coffee. But it is also essential to recognise some of the negative effects it could trigger. It is especially for those addicted to the drink.
Understanding these concepts can help you make proactive decisions that benefit your heart. If needed, you can take guidance from a cardiology expert in Phoenix.
May Increase Blood Pressure Temporarily
Caffeine tends to raise blood pressure temporarily. Even normal people with normal blood pressure also experience this. However, for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular issues, it may pose an additional burden to the heart and blood vessels.
May Cause Heart Palpitations
Excessive caffeine intake can also cause heart palpitations. Abnormal contractions of the heart muscle occur. This makes it beat faster. Therefore, it is essential for individuals who consume caffeine to exercise self-control and reduce their intake.
How Much Coffee Is Best to Take?
Most healthy adults can have 3 to 4 cups of plain, black coffee a day. It is similar to approximately 300 to 400 mg of caffeine. However, your personal health status, the medications you take, and your age determine your limits. It is best to lower your intake if you are having a rapid heartbeat, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping.
Ways to Make Your Coffee Heart-Healthy
Coffee can be beneficial for your heart if consumed in moderation. Making slight adjustments to your coffee drinking habits can have a significant impact. Here’s how to have a cup of coffee while keeping your heart safe.
Avoid Adding Sugar
Extreme sugar consumption can lead to high blood pressure and increase the chances of heart disease. So, do not add sugar or any other sugary flavoured creamers or syrups. You can have your black coffee or with a bit of milk. The best cardiologists in Goodyear would advise limiting added sugar for heart health.
Use Spices Like Cinnamon
Apart from flavouring, cinnamon can help control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The spice possesses anti-inflammatory properties that also support the heart. So, sprinkle some in your coffee as a natural heart-healthy enhancer.
Get Filtered Coffee
Filtered coffee is better than French press or espresso. It is because it filters harmful oils, such as cafestol, which can increase cholesterol. For long-term heart protection, the best cardiologists in Quartzsite recommend switching to filtered brews.
Never Have Coffee on an Empty Stomach
Having coffee increases the chances of acidity and cortisol spikes. It increases blood pressure and causes stress on the heart. So, experts always recommend having a small meal first to balance these effects.
Conclusion
Coffee is good and bad for your heart at the same time. Well, it depends on the quantity, timing, and method of preparation. Along with polyphenols, coffee contains some protective elements that benefit the heart. But, again, excess caffeine can increase blood pressure and even cause palpitations.
So, the trick is to drink coffee responsibly. Additionally, simple changes, such as filtered coffee or no added sugar, can make your coffee habit safer. But, seeking expert help when needed is always advisable. For heart-related concerns, visit the Advanced Cardiovascular Centre. They have the best cardiologists in Goodyear. Additionally, they offer same-day appointments, guarantee a fast diagnosis, and provide customised care.
FAQs
Does quitting coffee help your heart stay healthy?
In general, quitting coffee can be beneficial for individuals with existing cardiac problems. However, aside from that, coffee is not inherently dangerous for your health. It can even lower anxiety and palpitations. Moderate coffee intake is normally safe for most people.
How much coffee can you take in a day?
Most health professionals recommend having 2 to 3 cups of coffee a day as a heart-healthy option. This is about 200-300mg of caffeine. However, excessive coffee consumption can increase heart rate or blood pressure, particularly in individuals who are sensitive to it.
Does a cardiologist recommend drinking coffee?
Generally, many cardiologists recommend having coffee once or twice a day. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are good for heart health. But the recommendations are based on the individual patient’s history. Patients with arrhythmias or high blood pressure should consult an expert before consuming coffee.
Does coffee increase blood pressure?
Yes, coffee tends to increase blood pressure levels. But, for some people, it is not a concern. But those suffering from hypertension should control their intake. Additionally, if things get out of control, consult a cardiologist as soon as possible.
What are the long-term consequences of drinking coffee?
A decreased risk of stroke and heart illness can be associated with long-term coffee consumption. But you need to take it in moderation. But a person may face risks such as sleep, anxiety, or even coffee dependency. Therefore, it is advisable to consume coffee under the guidance of a specialist to maintain a healthy heart.
Ref:
https://www.maxhealthcare.in/blogs/is-coffee-heart-healthy
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/does-coffee-help-or-harm-your-heart