Cardiovascular disease is still the number one cause of disease-related death in America. Heart disease can result in poor quality of life, poor health outcomes and death. High blood pressure is a major risk factor in the development of heart disease. In addition to prescription medications, lifestyle modifications such as reducing caffeine intake can result in improved blood pressure control.
Heart Disease
Heart disease is a broad term for specific conditions of the heart including angina, heart attack, arrythmias and heart failure. In addition to raising the risk of developing these conditions, high blood pressure can exacerbate existing heart disease. Caffeine is believed to cause elevations in blood pressure through increased arterial peripheral resistance. In heart failure, high blood pressures forces an already-weakened heart to pump against higher resistance. High blood pressure also can damage the inner linings of arteries, making them more susceptible to the formation of clots and plaques.
Caffeine and Blood Pressure
According to an article titled "Hypertension Risk Status and Effect of Caffeine on Blood Pressure" published in the journal "Hypertension" in 2000, Terry Hartley and colleagues studied the effects of caffeine on blood pressure. The results suggested that blood pressure temporarily elevated following caffeine intake. In addition, the results also suggested the affect was more pronounced in patients who had higher blood pressure before they consumed caffeine.
Caffeine Effects
Although the effects of caffeine on blood pressure are well documented, the exact reasons are still unclear. Some researchers believe that caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, which under normal circumstances dilate blood vessels and lower pressure. Another theory is that caffeine might directly constrict blood vessels. In addition, as caffeine stimulates alertness, increased mental and physical activity also can raise blood pressure.
Coffee
Since caffeine is known to have a stimulating effect on the brain and improve alertness, many workers start the day with a caffeinated beverage such as coffee, latte or espresso. Caffeine also is a major ingredient in other popular beverage such as soda and energy drinks. According to the University of Wisconsin Stevens-Point Health Service, one cup of regular coffee contains between 110 to 150mg of caffeine. Instant coffee contains only 66mg of caffeine.
Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to prescription medications, salt restriction and weight loss can help to reduce high blood pressure. If you have been diagnosed with hypertension, you also should consider restricting caffeine intake to lower your blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment and lifestyle modifications for hypertension.
