A new American College of Cardiology analysis shows that coffee, in moderation, might be healthy for people with irregular heart rhythms.
The analysis points to multiple studies showing that moderate caffeine intake does not increase the likelihood of irregular heart rhythms. A dose of about three cups of coffee (350 milligrams) daily resulted in improved heart rate.
About nine percent of people more than 65 years-old have Atrial Fibrillation, the most common type of heart arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. This is when the heart beats too slow, too fast, or in an unusual rhythm.
More than half of the country’s adults drink coffee every day at an average of three cups per day according to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. It’s no wonder there’s a plethora of research and different takes on the medical benefits and drawbacks of caffeine.
Researchers agreed that overall, coffee and tea might have long-term properties that protect against an irregular heartbeat. However, those consumption habits should be taken in moderation.
Two of the studies in the ACC analysis showed an increased risk of an irregular heartbeat in which patients drank nine or 10 cups of coffee per day. The authors also point out that for those with existing heart conditions, energy drinks should be avoided.
For patients with the irregular heart rhythms, the American Heart Association advises against caffeine consumption at all. But other factors play an important role in maintaining a regular heartbeat like reducing high blood pressure, controlling cholesterol levels, losing weight, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking.
Caffeine can also be dangerous for pregnant women. According to the British Medical Journal, more than four cups of coffee per day during pregnancy was associated with low birth rate and pre-term birth.
Those who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep should avoid drinking coffee up to six hours before going to bed.
But there are also other benefits to keeping your regular cup of joe in your diet in the morning. Studies have shown that regularly drinking coffee can decrease the risk of heart disease or stroke, lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, protect against gallstones, and lower the risk of developing Parkinson's Disease.
