A new study suggests that drinking two or more cups of coffee a day may double the risk of death from heart disease in people with severe high blood pressure (160/100 mm Hg or higher). However, the same study found that one cup of coffee per day and regular green tea consumption did not increase this risk, even though both drinks contain caffeine.
Previous research has shown that drinking one cup of coffee daily may actually benefit heart health, helping heart attack survivors lower their risk of death and even reducing the risk of strokes and heart attacks in healthy individuals.
Coffee is also known to help with appetite control, lower the risk of depression, and improve alertness. However, consuming too much coffee can lead to higher blood pressure, anxiety, heart palpitations, and sleep disturbances.
Study Findings
Researchers analyzed data from over 18,500 participants (6,570 men and more than 12,000 women), aged 40 to 79, who were monitored over time. They categorized blood pressure into five levels, with severe hypertension classified as Grades 2 and 3.
Their findings showed that people with severe high blood pressure who drank two or more cups of coffee daily had twice the risk of dying from heart disease compared to those who did not drink coffee at all.
The researchers suggest that people with severe hypertension should avoid drinking excessive coffee, as the harmful effects of caffeine may outweigh any potential benefits.
On the other hand, green tea did not show the same risks. Scientists believe this may be due to polyphenols, plant-based compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could provide protective effects on the heart.
How to Protect Your Heart if You Have High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is a serious condition that increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Here are some key steps to protect your heart if you have high blood pressure:
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure – Regularly check your blood pressure at home or during doctor visits to keep track of any changes.
- Take Medications as Prescribed – If your doctor has prescribed medication, follow the instructions carefully. Skipping doses can lead to dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
- Eat a Healthy Diet – Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while reducing salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats.
- Stay Active – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (like walking or cycling) per week to help lower blood pressure.
- Manage Stress – Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
- Quit Smoking – Smoking raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting can significantly improve heart health.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption – Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure. Women should limit intake to one drink per day, and men to two drinks per day.
Following these habits can help manage high blood pressure and protect heart health. However, it is always best to work with your doctor to develop a personalized plan based on your individual health needs.
This study was conducted by Hiroyasu Iso and his team and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
If you care about health, please read studies about the benefits of low-dose lithium supplements, and what we know about egg intake and heart disease.
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