Plenty of folks throughout the world may start their day or finesse their afternoon with a cup of coffee or two. Some may even have three or four.
I’m drinking my first (of two) right now.
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From a health perspective, coffee can be an interesting drink. There is plenty of research to suggest it offers health benefits. Some studies have found links between coffee consumption and a lower risk of type-2 diabetes, better liver health, and more.
On the other hand, some studies have found it may impact sleep, anxiety, and other conditions.
Now a new study suggests that it could pose a risk to people with severe high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
The work, published in The Journal of the American Heart Association, found that heavy coffee consumption was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease death among people with severe hypertension. However, the risk was not present in people without hypertension or even grade 1 hypertension.
Researchers grouped people from the Japan Collaborative Cohort Study for Evaluation of Cancer Risk into five categories of blood pressure:
• Normal: 130/85 mm Hg or lower
• High normal: 130-139/85-89 mm Hg
• Grade 1 hypertension: 140-159/90-99 mm Hg
• Grade 2 hypertension: 160-179/100-109 mm Hg
• Grade 3 hypertension: 180/110 mm Hg
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By comparison, green tea consumption was not associated with a higher risk, even though it also features caffeine. Researchers believe it may have something to do with the polyphenols present in green tea, which can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
It is important to note that the study’s results do not prove that high levels of coffee consumption can be threatening to people with severe hypertension, just that there is an association.
Coffee’s impacts tend to vary from person to person and may even be dependent on genetics. If you are battling severe hypertension, it may be a good idea to limit coffee consumption or stop altogether.
About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.
