Coffee is one of the most popular beverages globally, but experts still debate its health benefits and harmful properties. The study examined the effects of coffee consumption on blood pressure, risk of heart disease, diabetes and other health issues. The study was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. It showed that drinking coffee can have both health benefits and drawbacks, “People can be assured that there are certainly no imminent dangerous effects of drinking coffee,” as the study’s author reported.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that drinking coffee can have both health benefits and drawbacks. Cardiologist Gregory Marcus, the study’s lead author, says the big picture is not simple and that most research on the topic has been observational and, therefore, limited. The randomized intervention trial was conducted on 100 healthy adults in the San Francisco area. Participants used Fitbit devices to monitor their steps and sleep, blood sugar, and electrocardiogram to monitor their heart rhythm.
More steps, less sleep
Participants were instructed to drink the coffee they wanted for two days and then abstain for two days, repeating this cycle over two weeks. The result? On the days they drank coffee, participants averaged 1058 more steps than on the days they abstained. However, they also slept 36 minutes less than on days without coffee. In addition, coffee also appeared to affect the heart, as coffee consumption was associated with a 50% increase in extrasystoles (or PVC in English). These heartbeats can cause palpitations and lead to the weakening of the heart or heart failure.
Premature atrial contractions
Although no significant association has been found between coffee consumption and premature atrial contractions, frequent arrhythmias with premature heartbeats may be a risk signal for developing a clinically significant cardiac arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation. Therefore, coffee consumption may be problematic for those who suffer from uncomfortable palpitations associated with PVC or are prone to heart failure due to family history.
A short-term study in healthy volunteers
Peter Kistler, head of electrophysiology at Alfred Hospital in Melbourne, called the study “strong,” but stressed that it was a short-term study involving healthy volunteers. Consuming moderate amounts of coffee does not provide information about the long-term effects of coffee or the impact on people with other health conditions.
Assessment of risks and benefits
The study shows that coffee consumption may be associated with increased physical activity but also with decreased sleep and increased risk of extrasystole. Therefore, people should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of coffee consumption and talk to a doctor before making significant changes to their diet. In any case, “people can be reassured that there are certainly no impending dangerous effects of coffee consumption,” Marcus said.
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