A recent scientific study has revealed unexpected benefits of coffee consumption. Researchers found that drinking one cup of coffee daily may help prevent the recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AFib) and is completely safe for individuals with the condition.
اضافة اعلان
The study was led by Dr. Gregory Marcus, a cardiology professor at the University of California, San Francisco. The results were presented at the American Heart Association Annual Conference in New Orleans and published in the prestigious JAMA medical journal.
Coffee Reduces Risk Rather Than Increases It
The trial included 200 elderly participants from Australia, Canada, and the United States, with an average age of 70. Participants were divided into two groups: one group completely stopped caffeine intake, while the other continued drinking coffee daily.
Over six months of careful monitoring, the results showed that those who continued drinking coffee had a 47% lower risk of recurrent AFib episodes compared to 64% among those who stopped coffee. Dr. Marcus noted: “I was surprised by how effective caffeinated coffee was in reducing the risk of recurrent atrial fibrillation.” He added that the findings provide strong evidence that coffee is not harmful to the heart as previously thought and may even serve as a protective factor in some cases.
One Cup a Day is Enough
Dr. Joanna Contreras, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai Foster Hospital in New York who was not involved in the study, confirmed that one cup of coffee daily is completely safe for individuals with heart rhythm disorders, emphasizing moderation. She added: “There is no universal rule, as some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, but clearly, one cup daily poses no risk.” She also cautioned against excessive consumption of other caffeinated beverages, such as energy drinks, which contain very high caffeine levels that may have adverse effects.
Why Coffee Protects the Heart
Researchers suggest the beneficial effect may be due to anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee, which help improve blood vessel function and reduce oxidative stress contributing to arrhythmia. While the study did not pinpoint the exact protective mechanism, it supports growing evidence that moderate coffee consumption can be part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Expert Advice
Doctors advise that heart patients consult their physician before changing caffeine intake, especially if they are taking medications that affect blood pressure or heart rate.
(NBC News)
