High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for the development of heart disease and cardiovascular-associated death. In addition to prescription medications that are used to treat high blood pressure, lifestyle modifications such as weight reduction, low salt intake and exercise can help to lower blood pressure. Another important lifestyle change that can help achieve healthier blood pressures is to restrict caffeine intake.
Daily Caffeine Sources
Caffeinated beverages are a popular choice for many people looking for a boost in energy and alertness. Drinks that include high amounts of caffeine include coffee, lattes, espressos and many energy drinks and sodas. According to the University of Wisconsin Stevens-Point Health Service, one cup of regular coffee contains between 110 to 150 mg of caffeine. The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that some energy drinks may contain more caffeine than even coffee. In addition, caffeine tablets are available over the counter and marketed with claims of stimulating alertness.
Caffeine's Effects on Blood Vessels
Although the effects of caffeine in raising blood pressure are well documented, the mechanism by which this occurs remains unclear. Caffeine may directly cause constriction of blood vessels within the body. Alternatively, caffeine may prevent the dilation of blood vessels by blocking adenosine receptors. As a result of blood vessel constriction, patients may experience an increase in blood pressure. Caffeine may also indirectly cause elevated blood pressure by stimulating an increase in physical and mental activity.
Caffeine in Blood Pressure Trial
According to a 2000 article titled "Hypertension Risk Status and Effect of Caffeine on Blood Pressure" published in the journal "Hypertension," Terry Hartley and colleagues found that blood pressure temporarily rises following the consumption of caffeine. In addition, the results suggested that patients with higher blood pressures at the beginning of the study experienced greater increases in blood pressure after taking caffeine.
Caffeine and Heart Disease
Caffeine causes elevations in blood pressure by promoting the constriction of blood vessels, which increases the resistance in peripheral arteries. Higher blood pressures can exacerbate conditions such as heart failure by forcing a weakened heart to pump against greater blood pressures. High blood pressure also increases the risk of heart attack and stroke by causing injury to the inner linings of arteries which promotes the formation of clots. Patients should discuss the best treatment and lifestyle modifications for hypertension with their doctor.
Caffeine Safety
Although caffeine is included in many everyday products, it is advisable to restrict your intake. Besides its potential to raise blood pressures, caffeine use can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms that include irritability, fatigue, mood changes, and headache.
References
- American Heart Association: Hypertension Risk Status and Effect of Caffeine on Blood Pressure
- University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point: Caffeine Containing Products
- Journal of Applied Physiology: Effects of Caffeine on Blood Pressure, Heart rate, and Forearm Blood Flow During Dynamic Leg Exercise
- John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center: Information About Caffeine Dependence
- Center for Science in the Public Interest: Caffeine Content in Food & Drugs
