If you’re a coffee lover with severe high blood pressure, a recent study suggests it might be time to reconsider your caffeine intake.
Surprisingly, the same caution doesn’t apply to green tea. Let’s delve into what this study found and understand why moderation matters.
The Study’s Findings
The study uncovered a startling revelation: individuals with severe high blood pressure, particularly those with a reading of 160/100 mm Hg or higher, who consumed two or more cups of coffee daily, faced a doubled risk of dying from heart disease.
In contrast, enjoying one cup of coffee per day or drinking green tea daily did not appear to increase the risk, even though both beverages contain caffeine.
But Isn’t Coffee Beneficial for the Heart?
This finding might seem puzzling, considering prior research suggesting that a daily cup of coffee could benefit heart attack survivors by reducing their risk of death.
It has even been proposed to prevent heart attacks or strokes in healthy individuals.
Coffee also boasts other health advantages, such as appetite control, heightened alertness, reduced risk of certain chronic illnesses, and lower odds of depression.
However, like many things in life, too much coffee can be detrimental. Excessive consumption can elevate blood pressure, induce anxiety, cause heart palpitations, and disrupt sleep.
Who Were the Participants in This Study?
The research enlisted over 6,570 men and more than 12,000 women, all aged between 40 and 79.
For individuals with severe high blood pressure who consumed two or more cups of coffee daily, the study revealed a two-fold increase in the risk of heart disease-related death compared to those who abstained from coffee altogether.
It appears that, for these individuals, the potential harm of caffeine outweighs its protective effects. But what about green tea?
The Benefits of Green Tea
The positive effects associated with green tea may be attributed to polyphenols, natural compounds found in plants that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting overall health.
Protecting Heart Health with High Blood Pressure
If you’re living with high blood pressure, safeguarding your heart health should be a top priority. Here are some essential steps to consider:
Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regularly check your blood pressure, following your doctor’s recommendations for frequency.
Adhere to Medication: If your doctor has prescribed medication for high blood pressure, ensure you take it as directed. Skipping doses or discontinuing treatment can lead to spikes in blood pressure.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
Stay Physically Active: Engage in regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week to help lower blood pressure.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga to manage stress levels effectively.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can raise blood pressure and harm your heart. Quitting smoking can significantly improve heart health.
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can elevate blood pressure. If you choose to drink, stick to one drink per day for women and two for men.
Remember, every individual’s health needs differ. Collaborating with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan is the most effective way to manage high blood pressure and protect your heart health.
So, before you reach for that second cup of coffee, consider whether it’s the right choice for your heart.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about potatoes and high blood pressure, and top 10 choices for a blood pressure-friendly diet
For more information about high blood pressure, please see recent studies about impact of vitamins on high blood pressure you need to know, and the powerful link between high blood pressure and a potassium-rich diet.
Follow us on Twitter for more articles about this topic.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
