Moderate caffeine intake can promote the regeneration of endothelial cells, which helps maintain and repair blood vessel walls. Therefore, scientists believe that caffeine may have a potential protective effect on vascular health.
New York, NY (Merxwire) – Do you enjoy drinking coffee? Coffee is loved worldwide, with an average person consuming about 2 kilograms yearly. For many, having a daily cup of coffee has become a routine. But did you know coffee’s role as a daily beverage goes beyond being delicious and energizing? According to recent research, the caffeine in coffee may also benefit cardiovascular health.
This study, conducted by a research team from Sapienza University of Rome, involved a one-week dietary survey of 31 patients with lupus without cardiovascular risk factors. After the week, the researchers collected blood samples to assess the participants’ vascular health. The results showed that those who consumed caffeine had significantly better endothelial cell function, indicating that caffeine may positively affect vascular health. The core issue of vascular diseases is vascular damage, and when blood vessels cannot effectively repair themselves, the risk of heart attacks and strokes increases.
Patients with inflammatory diseases like lupus are at even higher cardiovascular risk, partly due to the side effects of medications on blood vessels. Traditionally, the medical community has advised patients to reduce cardiovascular risks by quitting smoking, lowering cholesterol, and controlling blood pressure. However, this new research suggests an alternative approach, where caffeine intake through diet may benefit vascular health.
In addition to this study, other observational studies have also highlighted the potential connection between coffee and heart health. A study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology in September 2022 found that people who drink two to three cups of coffee daily have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death than those who do not.
This study followed nearly 450,000 participants without arrhythmias or cardiovascular diseases over 12 years. The results showed that various types of caffeinated coffee were associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, while decaffeinated coffee did not significantly benefit cardiovascular health.
As one of the most popular beverages worldwide, coffee is a vital daily pleasure and a potential health enhancer. However, while coffee may offer health benefits, it should still be consumed in moderation, especially for those sensitive to caffeine or having related health concerns. With more longitudinal studies in the future, the specific effects of caffeine on cardiovascular health will become more apparent.
