Does caffeine raise heart rate. Caffeine’s Impact on Heart Rate and Health: Balancing Benefits and Risks

05.08.202312.06.2023 by alexxlab

How does caffeine affect heart rate and overall health. What are the potential benefits and risks of coffee consumption. Can caffeine cause heart palpitations. How much coffee is safe to drink daily.

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The CRAVE Study: Unveiling Coffee’s Effects on Heart Rhythm

The Coffee and Real-time Atrial and Ventricular Ectopy (CRAVE) clinical trial has provided groundbreaking insights into the relationship between coffee consumption, heart rhythm, sleep duration, and physical activity. This innovative study, presented at the American Heart Association’s 2021 Scientific Sessions, offers quantifiable data on caffeine’s impact on our bodies.

Unlike previous observational studies, CRAVE utilized continuous monitoring devices to capture real-time biophysical responses to caffeine intake. The study involved 100 generally healthy participants with a median age of 38, who alternated between coffee-consuming and non-consuming days.

Key Findings of the CRAVE Study

54% increase in premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or heart palpitations on coffee-drinking days
36 fewer minutes of sleep on nights following coffee consumption
Approximately 1,000 more steps taken on coffee-drinking days
3% increase in PVCs, 587 additional steps, and 18 fewer minutes of sleep for each cup of coffee beyond the three-cup limit

These findings provide valuable insights into how caffeine affects our bodies, but it’s important to note that the study focused on moderate coffee consumption (1-3 cups per day) in young, healthy individuals.

Understanding Heart Palpitations and Caffeine Consumption

Heart palpitations, often described as a feeling of the heart skipping a beat or thumping heavily, are a common occurrence and usually not a cause for concern. The CRAVE study revealed an increase in these palpitations on coffee-drinking days, but it’s crucial to contextualize this information.

Are heart palpitations after drinking coffee dangerous? In most cases, occasional palpitations are harmless, especially in young, healthy individuals. The CRAVE study participants did not show an increased risk of dangerous heart rhythms despite experiencing more palpitations.

However, it’s essential to consider individual health circumstances. Those with existing heart conditions or those experiencing new or more frequent palpitations should consult their healthcare provider about their caffeine intake.

The Sleep-Caffeine Connection: Balancing Energy and Rest

One of the most significant findings of the CRAVE study was the impact of caffeine on sleep duration. Participants experienced an average of 36 fewer minutes of sleep on nights following coffee consumption. This reduction in sleep time can have cascading effects on overall health and well-being.

How does caffeine affect sleep patterns? Caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. It blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, which are responsible for promoting sleepiness. This blockage can lead to difficulty falling asleep or maintaining deep, restorative sleep.

Individual Variations in Caffeine Metabolism

The study also highlighted the importance of individual differences in caffeine metabolism. Participants who metabolized caffeine slowly were more likely to experience sleep disturbances, while those who metabolized it quickly were more prone to heart palpitations.

This variance in caffeine metabolism underscores the need for personalized approaches to coffee consumption. What works for one person may not be suitable for another, emphasizing the importance of listening to your body and adjusting caffeine intake accordingly.

The Physical Activity Boost: Coffee as a Potential Exercise Enhancer

While the CRAVE study revealed some potential concerns about caffeine consumption, it also highlighted a positive aspect: increased physical activity. Participants took approximately 1,000 more steps on coffee-drinking days, with each additional cup beyond the three-cup limit associated with 587 more steps.

Can coffee improve exercise performance? Research suggests that caffeine can enhance physical performance by reducing perceived exertion, improving endurance, and increasing alertness. These effects may contribute to the increased step count observed in the CRAVE study.

Potential Mechanisms Behind Caffeine’s Exercise Benefits

Increased adrenaline release, promoting fat breakdown for energy
Enhanced calcium release in muscles, potentially improving muscle contraction
Reduced perception of effort during exercise
Improved focus and alertness, potentially leading to better workout performance

While these benefits are promising, it’s important to remember that individual responses to caffeine can vary. Some people may experience negative effects, such as jitters or anxiety, which could counteract the potential exercise benefits.

Navigating the Caffeine Conundrum: Finding Your Personal Balance

The CRAVE study’s findings underscore the complex relationship between caffeine consumption and various aspects of health. While coffee can offer benefits such as increased physical activity, it may also lead to sleep disturbances and heart palpitations in some individuals.

How can you determine the right amount of caffeine for your body? Consider the following factors:

Your overall health status, including any existing heart conditions
Your sleep quality and quantity
Your physical activity levels and fitness goals
Your individual response to caffeine, including any side effects you may experience
Your caffeine metabolism rate, which can be influenced by genetics and other factors

It’s crucial to listen to your body and adjust your caffeine intake based on how you feel. If you experience persistent sleep issues, frequent heart palpitations, or other concerning symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

Beyond Coffee: Other Sources of Caffeine and Their Effects

While the CRAVE study focused on coffee consumption, it’s important to consider other sources of caffeine in our diets. Many beverages and foods contain caffeine, and their effects on heart rate, sleep, and physical activity may vary.

What are some common sources of caffeine besides coffee?

Tea (black, green, and some herbal varieties)
Energy drinks
Soft drinks
Chocolate
Some medications and supplements

The caffeine content and associated effects of these products can differ significantly from coffee. For example, green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can help counteract some of caffeine’s stimulating effects, potentially leading to a more balanced energy boost.

Comparing Caffeine Sources: Effects on Heart Rate and Health

Different caffeine sources may impact heart rate and overall health in varying ways. For instance:

Energy drinks often contain high levels of caffeine along with other stimulants, which may lead to more pronounced effects on heart rate and blood pressure compared to coffee.
The tannins in tea can slow caffeine absorption, potentially resulting in a more gradual and sustained energy boost compared to coffee’s more rapid effects.
Chocolate contains relatively small amounts of caffeine but also includes theobromine, another stimulant that may affect heart rate and mood.

When considering your caffeine intake, it’s essential to account for all sources, not just coffee. This comprehensive approach can help you better manage your overall caffeine consumption and its potential effects on your health.

The Long-Term Health Implications of Regular Caffeine Consumption

While the CRAVE study provides valuable insights into the short-term effects of caffeine, it’s also important to consider the potential long-term health implications of regular coffee consumption. Numerous studies have explored the relationship between coffee intake and various health outcomes, with mixed results.

What are some potential long-term health effects of regular coffee consumption?

Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
Lower risk of certain cancers, including liver and colorectal cancer
Potential protective effects against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Possible reduction in overall mortality risk

However, it’s crucial to note that these potential benefits are often associated with moderate coffee consumption. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to negative health outcomes, including increased anxiety, digestive issues, and potential cardiovascular problems in sensitive individuals.

Caffeine and Cardiovascular Health: A Complex Relationship

The relationship between caffeine and cardiovascular health is particularly complex. While some studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption may have protective effects on the heart, others have found potential risks, especially in individuals with existing heart conditions.

Some key considerations regarding caffeine and heart health include:

Temporary increases in blood pressure shortly after caffeine consumption
Potential long-term improvements in blood pressure regulation with regular, moderate intake
Varied effects on heart rhythm, as observed in the CRAVE study
Possible reduction in the risk of heart failure and stroke with moderate consumption

Given the complexity of this relationship, individuals with heart concerns should consult their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach to caffeine consumption based on their specific health status and risk factors.

Practical Tips for Healthy Caffeine Consumption

Based on the insights from the CRAVE study and other research on caffeine’s effects, here are some practical tips for maintaining a healthy relationship with caffeine:

Monitor your intake: Keep track of all sources of caffeine in your diet, not just coffee.
Set a cut-off time: Avoid consuming caffeine late in the day to minimize sleep disruptions.
Stay hydrated: Balance your caffeine intake with plenty of water to offset potential dehydrating effects.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to how caffeine affects your mood, energy levels, and sleep quality.
Consider your health status: If you have existing health conditions, particularly heart-related issues, consult your healthcare provider about safe caffeine consumption.
Gradually reduce intake if needed: If you decide to cut back on caffeine, do so gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Explore alternatives: If you enjoy the ritual of a hot beverage but want to reduce caffeine, consider herbal teas or decaf options.

Remember, moderation is key when it comes to caffeine consumption. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that healthy adults consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to 4-5 cups of coffee.

Recognizing Signs of Excessive Caffeine Intake

While moderate caffeine consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle, it’s important to be aware of signs that you may be consuming too much. These can include:

Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Increased anxiety or jitteriness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Digestive issues such as stomach upset or acid reflux
Headaches or migraines
Dehydration
Dependency or withdrawal symptoms when not consuming caffeine

If you experience these symptoms regularly, it may be worth reassessing your caffeine intake and discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional.

The Future of Caffeine Research: Building on the CRAVE Study

The CRAVE study represents a significant step forward in our understanding of caffeine’s effects on the body, but there is still much to learn. Future research could build on these findings in several ways:

Longer-term studies to assess the cumulative effects of regular caffeine consumption over months or years
Investigations into how caffeine interacts with different dietary patterns and lifestyle factors
Research on the effects of caffeine in diverse populations, including older adults and individuals with various health conditions
Exploration of the potential therapeutic uses of caffeine in certain medical contexts
Studies on the impact of different caffeine sources (e.g., coffee vs. tea vs. energy drinks) on health outcomes

As our understanding of caffeine’s effects continues to evolve, it’s important to stay informed about the latest research and recommendations. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions about your caffeine consumption and overall health.

The Role of Personalized Medicine in Caffeine Consumption

One exciting area of future research is the potential for personalized recommendations based on individual genetic profiles and health status. As we learn more about how factors like caffeine metabolism genes influence our response to caffeine, we may be able to provide more tailored advice on optimal caffeine intake.

This personalized approach could help individuals maximize the potential benefits of caffeine while minimizing risks, leading to more effective and safer consumption patterns.

In conclusion, the CRAVE study has provided valuable insights into the complex relationship between caffeine, heart health, sleep, and physical activity. While moderate coffee consumption can offer potential benefits, it’s crucial to consider individual factors and listen to your body. By staying informed and mindful of your caffeine intake, you can work towards finding the right balance for your health and well-being.

Coffee can make the heart skip beats, but it brews up benefits, too | Heart

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MedBlog

Heart

January 13, 2022

Heart

Amit Khera, M. D.

Director, Preventive Cardiology Program

Internal Medicine – Cardiology

A new study found that coffee can increase the incidence of heart palpitations and increase physical activity.

Countless studies have analyzed the health implications of drinking coffee, with no consensus on whether it’s “good” or “bad” for our hearts. Part of the problem is that most research on coffee’s effects has been observational – reliant on self-reported data that can’t be analyzed separately from a patient’s overall health, daily lifestyle, and diet.

But an innovative study presented at the American Heart Association’s (AHA) 2021 Scientific Sessions is changing our perceptions of coffee and heart health.

The Coffee and Real-time Atrial and Ventricular Ectopy (CRAVE) clinical trial returned the first set of data that illustrates a quantifiable link between heart rhythm, duration of sleep, and coffee consumption.

Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, asked 100 generally healthy CRAVE participants (median age 38) to alternate days on which they consumed one to three cups of coffee. Their biophysical responses to the caffeine were captured through continuously worn electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors, activity tracker watches, and continuous blood glucose monitors.

CRAVE showed that on coffee-drinking days, trial participants:

Experienced 54% more premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), or heart palpitations
Got 36 fewer minutes of sleep
Walked about 1,000 more steps

Each additional cup of coffee consumed beyond the three-cup limit was associated with a 3% increase in PVCs, 587 more steps per day, and 18 fewer minutes of sleep per night. Patients whose bodies metabolized caffeine slowly were more likely to lose sleep. Faster caffeine metabolizers were more likely to experience heart palpitations.

So, what do the results of this study mean for you? Like all good things in life, enjoying coffee should be an exercise in moderation – and each of us should tailor our caffeine consumption to what makes the most sense for our heart health.

Skipped heartbeats after coffee are probably safe

Whereas the CRAVE data showed an increase of heart palpitations on coffee days, it’s not necessarily a cause for alarm. Everyone experiences occasional heart palpitations, which can feel like your heart skipping a beat or a heavy thump. They rarely point to a serious problem. Participants in the CRAVE study did not have an increased risk of dangerous heart rhythms.

However, that doesn’t mean caffeine consumption is safe for everyone. When we look at the study results, it’s important to consider two key points:

Participants generally drank three or fewer cups of coffee a day; this is a relatively modest amount.
These individuals were young and generally healthy, with no heart rhythm conditions that might be affected by caffeine consumption.

If you have an existing heart condition or if you experience new or more frequent PVCs, talk with your provider about whether drinking coffee is right for you. A few and occasional extra beats can be normal, but racing heart beats, especially for several minutes to hours, can be a more concerning issue.

Call your doctor anytime you are concerned about your heart health. If you experience fainting, lightheadedness, or racing heartbeats for several minutes or more, call right away – these symptoms could indicate a serious heart rhythm disorder.

Related reading: The bitter truth: 25 cups of coffee might not be good for you

Amit Khera, M.D., is a physician, researcher, and teacher at UT Southwestern, where he is also Director of the Preventive Cardiology Program. Beyond his clinical work, he pursues his passion for preventing cardiac disease by conducting extensive research in the subject.

Learn more

The coffee tradeoff: Less sleep, more movement

CRAVE data suggest that drinking coffee correlates with getting less sleep and more physical activity. If you are generally healthy and normally sleep well, losing a little sleep but moving more might not put your heart health at risk. And moving more is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular conditions such as obesity and diabetes, as well as several cancers.

I drink a cup of coffee every morning before I go for a run, and it helps give me a boost! For some patients, the tradeoff is worth it.

However, if you already have trouble sleeping, drinking coffee is not going to help your health. Over time, getting too little sleep has been linked to the risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes, and depression. Adults should try to get seven to nine hours sleep each night.

Wearable devices can help monitor your heart and provide valuable information for cardiology research and care.

Heart health care you can wear

Wearables are opening a whole new way of thinking about research. New sensors and technology allow us to better understand what’s happening in real life – not just in a lab situation – allowing us to assess individualized triggers for abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation.

In another study presented at this fall’s AHA event, patients selected the trigger they thought caused their A-fib, such as caffeine, alcohol, reduced sleep, exercise, or specific diets. After they were exposed to their self-selected trigger, a smartphone-based ECG device monitored their heart rate. Researchers found that what many people thought triggered their A-fib in fact did not. This personalized data can help us design care plans that more fully consider a patient’s overall health.

UT Southwestern cardiologists are using wearable technology in many ways. For example, our cardiac rehabilitation is testing ways to monitor patients’ home-based exercise. Patients frequently bring their mobile EKG recordings from their smart devices for their cardiologist to review. And there are helpful data coming from step counters, sleep trackers, and heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen sensors.

As we work toward more personalized, real-time clinical applications for wearable data, we’re developing advanced processes to capture, protect, and analyze specific information more efficiently. I look forward to seeing how wearable technology will assist us in guiding patients toward improved heart health.

And it’s satisfying to know that, for many patients, enjoying a cup of Joe likely isn’t a major vice after all.

To visit with a cardiologist, call 214-645-8000 or request an appointment online.

How Does Caffeine Affect the Heart?

Do you love your morning cup of coffee but fear that it could be harmful to your heart health?

If so, you’re not alone. Researchers have been studying the effects of caffeine on the heart for years. To help you out, we’ve gathered information about the effects of caffeine on your heart to ensure your caffeine habit isn’t hindering your health.

How does caffeine affect the heart?

Caffeine affects the heart in a lot of different ways. Some ways aren’t good, but others are. When you drink caffeine, it enters your bloodstream from your stomach and small intestine. It stimulates your central nervous system, which causes your heart to beat faster.

Some people have a higher sensitivity to caffeine than others. And for some of those people, one of the effects of drinking caffeine can be heart palpitations, or an irregular heart rate. Heart palpitation are a common heart-related symptom people report. However, it should concern you if you are experiencing them frequently when consuming caffeine. If this is the case, reach out to your health care provider.

As for caffeine and hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, people who suffer from this condition will want to keep an eye on how much they consume. This is because caffeine can sometimes cause a short, but significant increase in blood pressure. If you have hypertension, talk to your health care provider to learn how much caffeine is safe for you.

Some heart-healthy benefits

However, as long as you aren’t exceeding the suggested daily caffeine intake, researchers have found that caffeine, specifically in coffee, can have some heart-healthy effects. Coffee contains phytochemicals that can reduce inflammation. And because inflammation in the heart can cause heart failure and atherosclerosis, it’s great that drinking coffee might help prevent it. Other research has shown that caffeine can act as an antioxidant, which could reduce your risk for diabetes.

Overall, more research needs to be done to confirm the exact benefits and risks of caffeine on the heart.

What amount of caffeine is safe?

Research shows that a caffeine intake of up to 400 milligrams a day is safe for most average-sized adults. That equals about two cups of coffee per day.

However, having a high caffeine intake can cause harmful side effects. More than four cups of coffee a day can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, increase stress levels and increase your risk for a heart attack or stroke. This is especially true for people who are not used to consuming large amounts of caffeine.

However, if you are a moderate caffeine drinker — rest easy in knowing that limited caffeine won’t harm your heart.

How much caffeine is in my favorite drink?

So, 400 milligrams of caffeine equals two cups of coffee. But what about our other favorite caffeine drinks? How does that translate?

Here are a few breakdowns for you:

Espresso: 240 to720 milligrams
Energy drinks: 50 to 160 milligrams
Brewed tea: 40 to 120 milligrams
Soft drinks: 20 to 40 milligrams

However, drinking more than 500 milligrams of caffeine per day can cause caffeine intoxication. This includes uncomfortable and sometimes serious symptoms, such as:

High blood pressure
Insomnia
Panic attacks
Increased gastric acid
Bowel irritability
Anxiety

Tips on lowering your caffeine intake

Whether you are drinking more caffeine than the recommended daily amount, you’re feeling the side effects of too much caffeine or you simply want to consume less, you can ease up with a few relatively easy changes.

For some, reducing their caffeine intake is as simple as eliminating an extra cup of coffee a day. However, for others, significantly reducing their intake may be necessary. Try swapping a caffeinated drink for a non-caffeinated one, such as:

Decaf coffee
Caffeine-free herbal tea
Sparkling water in place of a soft drink or caffeinated energy drink

If you choose to reduce your caffeine consumption, try to do so over the course of several days. Doing too much too quickly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as brain fog, jitters and brain fog.

When to talk to your doctor

When it comes to caffeine, make sure you are doing your homework and reading nutrition labels. That way, you can make sure you aren’t exceeding your 400 milligram daily limit. If you are experiencing negative reactions to caffeine or you’ve tried reducing your intake and still don’t feel right, reach out to your primary care provider, who may refer you to a cardiologist, to discuss your options.

Learn about the heart and vascular services we offer at Mercy Health.

How does coffee affect blood vessels and the brain?

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21.10.2022

“It is worth tasting coffee, everything seems to flash, and thoughts crowd like battalions on the battlefield” – the words of Honore de Balzac, a well-known connoisseur of the drink. It is said that his daily dose reached 50 cups of strong coffee. Throughout the history of this drink, the impression has been that it goes hand in hand with the muse of many geniuses. Is this due to the effect of caffeine on mental activity? And how does coffee affect the vessels of the brain?

COFFEE AND INTELLIGENCE. IS THERE A RELATIONSHIP?

Let’s answer the question right away – there is no connection. But there is a direct impact on performance. This is because caffeine stimulates the heart rate, which means it increases blood supply, including to the brain.

After drinking a cup, the majority notes not only an increase in concentration, but also the speed of simple physical actions. For this reason, many gym goers drink a cup of espresso or americano an hour before their workout. Physical activity is easier, movements become clearer, and there is enough energy until the end of the session.

But the speed of work and quality are two different things, so it’s not worth looking for the relationship between genius and love for coffee.

HOW DOES COFFEE AFFECT THE VESSELS OF THE BRAIN?

A frequent question for those who think about their health. Caffeine is known to constrict blood vessels in the brain. This explains the effect of the “pills”, when after strong coffee the headache becomes less or completely disappears. At the same time, the vessels of the peripheral system expand under the influence of caffeine. Hence, for some time, hypotension increases blood pressure.

Any food and drinks have a similar effect on blood vessels – the body produces adrenaline, blood and oxygen enter the tissues faster. Therefore, for a healthy person, moderate consumption of a fragrant drink gives only a positive effect.

The health benefits of coffee are still not fully understood. For example, scientists are now studying the link between coffee consumption and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

HOW TO DRINK COFFEE CORRECTLY

Here are some simple rules, following which you can enjoy great taste without harm to your health:

Drink coffee in small portions. A small cup of strong espresso is enough to recharge your performance batteries.
do not exceed 3-5 coffees per day. They contain approximately 400 mg. caffeine is the recommended daily allowance for this substance for an adult.
choose only quality coffee, instant or in beans. This directly affects the taste, benefits and your enjoyment of the drink. can be sure of the quality of the purchased product for coffee machines. All stages of production comply with international standards, and only selected coffee beans serve as raw materials.

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effects on the body, harm and benefits – blog I Love Supersport

We usually hear about coffee: it helps to wake up, invigorates, raises blood pressure, relieves a hangover, is a diuretic and can cause dehydration. All these are general facts, and not always true. We have gone deep to the molecular level and prepared a real scientific coffee educational program for you.

What is caffeine

In its pure form, it is white bitter crystals. “According to the passport” the substance has an unpronounceable name 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine. It is contained in different products and, oddly enough, its “nickname” depends on the product. Caffeine is extracted from coffee, theine from tea leaves, mateine from Paraguayan mate tea, guaranine from the South American guarana liana. In fact, this is the same chemical compound.

How caffeine gets into the blood

Caffeine has lipophilic properties – it dissolves well in lipids, that is, in fats. Lipids make up the membranes of our cells, and hence our biological barriers. The walls of the intestines and blood vessels for a lipophilic substance are not an obstacle and absorption occurs quickly and practically without loss. Moreover, from liquid products (coffee, energy drink), absorption is faster than from solid products (chocolate or, for example, brownie). Within an hour, the concentration of the substance in the blood becomes maximum.

The effect of caffeine on the body

The duration of the noticeable effect of caffeine depends on the level of metabolism of a person – on average it is 5-6 hours. Let’s figure out what happens in the body during this time.

Metabolism
On average, 80% of the invigorating trimethylxanthine “settles” in the liver. There, special enzymes process it into other compounds: paraxanthine, theobromine, theophylline. All of them are excreted from the body in 3-7 hours. The remaining 20% of the substance binds to blood proteins and is carried through tissues and organs. And while each body system responds differently, for the most part, caffeine’s effects are based on two key mechanisms:

Mechanism No. 1
There are such molecules – ATP. These are “batteries” for all cellular processes. There are three phosphates in an ATP molecule. We split off one phosphate – we get energy. Energy can be extracted three times from one ATP molecule. The ATP molecule depleted to zero is adenosine. So caffeine, like a twin brother, is similar to adenosine.
If adenosine accumulates a lot, then the body has spent a lot of energy and it’s time to switch to energy-saving mode. Caffeine does a simple thing – it sits on the receptors itself, turns them off, but there is no signal “you need to rest” at the same time. As a result, fatigue remains a secret for us, and all our organs continue to invigorate even on “dead batteries”.

Mechanism #2
Caffeine blocks the enzyme that breaks down cAMP molecules (trust me, you don’t need to know the explanation). We explain: some hormones are too large and cannot pass through the cell membrane to transmit their signal to the address. cAMP are cellular “couriers”, they are able to receive signals from hormones and transmit them inside the cell. If the enzyme is blocked, it stops destroying cAMP molecules, and their concentration in cells increases. As a result, there are more “couriers” in the cell and the action of hormones is enhanced. What kind of action depends on which hormone and which cell we are talking about.

Effects on the brain
There is a special blood-brain barrier between the blood and the brain. Caffeine easily overcomes it and “sticks” to adenosine receptors on neurons. In addition, through cAMP, the effect of adrenaline on neurons increases. Result: the brain works faster and does not pay attention to fatigue. But as long as the body has resources.

Influence on the heart
There are also adenosine receptors on myocardial cells. Activation of these receptors reduces heart rate, improves blood flow to the heart, and lowers blood pressure. Caffeine blocks receptors and, therefore, gives a diametrically opposite effect. In addition, due to the large amount of cAMP, the heart feels the adrenaline effect more acutely. Result: the heart begins to beat harder and does it even when it needs to rest in a good way. Hello, tachycardia.

Influence on the stomach
To digest food, special cells secrete hydrochloric acid into the stomach. Caffeine is a stimulant of this process. The mechanisms of action are still the same: secretory cells become less sensitive to adenosine – they ignore the “energy-saving mode” and continue to release acid to the fullest. In parallel, cAMP increases the cell’s sensitivity to histamine, a hormone that enhances acid production. Result: active release of hydrochloric acid. Now you understand why it is better to drink coffee immediately before a meal or immediately after it?

Health benefits

In general, if you do not abuse coffee, then its effect on people’s health is quite positive.

Prevention of neurodegenerative diseases

Coffee has been proven to help prevent Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. For example, in an experiment with mice, the number of “bad” abnormal proteins in the brain area responsible for memory decreased.

Stroke prevention

British scientists conducted a study with a group of 83284 people who were given 2-4 cups of coffee daily for several months. After monitoring the well-being of the experimental subjects, the scientists concluded that drinking coffee reduces the risk of stroke by 20%.

Prevention of cancer

There are several statistical studies that show that people with a moderate love of coffee are less likely to get cancer. This is probably due to the fact that it contains powerful antioxidants. They are about 500 times stronger than green tea extract or vitamin C.

The dangers of caffeine in overdose

Coffee has zero calories. A cup of americano does not give us new energy, but it does help burn off our existing reserves. Therefore, it is necessary to replenish reserves in time, otherwise physical exhaustion and a nervous breakdown are not far off.

It is also important to remember that:
– Coffee can stimulate stomach ulcers, inflammation of the esophageal mucosa and gastroesophageal reflux disease
– Since coffee increases the heartbeat, for those who already have coronary heart disease or organic myocardial damage in their luggage , even a small “additive” can lead to serious complications
– Coffee in large doses can trigger migraines, as modern research confirms.
– With an overdose of coffee, you will experience a lot of unpleasant sensations: arrhythmia, increased pressure, anxiety, trembling hands or feet, headache, insomnia, heartburn, nausea.

What is the safe dose of caffeine?
For Russia, the norms are prescribed in the regulations from the Ministry of Health – 150-300 mg of caffeine per day. America and Europe have their own standards, which allow up to 400 mg per day.

For comparison, invigorating drinks and the amount of caffeine in them:

Thanks to genetic research, it has even become possible to determine the individual consumption of cups of coffee per day. Genes will show the rate of metabolism of caffeine and the risk of developing hypertension, and by comparing these data, you will understand whether you need to limit yourself to one cup of your favorite drink or you can drink it several times a day.

Coffee is not as terrible as many people say about it, if you keep yourself within the limits of coffee and do not abuse it.