MDLinxPopular Beverages Can Strain and Damage the Heart

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New research suggests that excessive caffeine consumption may increase cardiovascular risk in healthy individuals. The study, presented at the American College of Cardiology Asia meeting, found that consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine daily on most days of the week could lead to elevated heart rate and blood pressure, potentially raising the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Key Points:

• Researchers studied 92 healthy individuals aged 18-45, measuring heart rate and blood pressure before and after a 3-minute step test.
• 19.6% of participants consumed more than 400 mg of caffeine daily, equivalent to about four cups of coffee or two energy drinks.
• Chronic caffeine consumption was defined as intake of caffeinated beverages on 5 days of the week for over a year.
• Participants consuming 600 mg or more of caffeine daily showed significant association with elevated heart rate (100 bpm) and blood pressure (>140/90 mm Hg) after the step test.
• The US Food and Drug Administration considers up to 400 mg of caffeine daily safe for healthy adults.
• Experts emphasize that moderate caffeine consumption, particularly coffee, may offer cardiovascular benefits.
• The study highlights the importance of moderation in caffeine intake for maintaining heart health.

“Regular caffeine consumption could disturb the parasympathetic system, leading to elevated blood pressure and heart rates.”
– Nency Kagathara, MBBS, Zydus Medical College and Hospital

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