Caffeine is a natural substance found in the leaves, seeds and fruits of many plants. Examples include coffee and cocoa beans, tea leaves and kola nuts. Foods that contain caffeine include coffee, chocolate, cocoa and some cola-based sodas. Caffeine affects a number of the body's organs, including the gastrointestinal system, the nervous system and the heart.
Heart Flutters
Heart flutters, sometimes called heart palpitations, produce a feeling of a rapid or pounding heartbeat, often described as a fluttering in the chest. Occasionally, it will seem as if your heart skips a beat or stops for an instant. A normal heartbeat is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. When palpitations occur, the heart rate may increase noticeably for a few seconds. MedlinePlus says that palpitations are usually not serious, but check with your doctor if you experience them regularly.
The Effect of Caffeine
Caffeine is one of the more common causes of heart flutters. The compound is absorbed rapidly into the blood and acts as a stimulant, affecting many organs. It raises the metabolic rate, dilates the blood vessels and increases the activity of several neurotransmitters that affect heart rate and cause palpitations. Caffeine is excreted by the kidneys, but its effect on the body may last as long as several hours.
Relationship to Cardiovascular Disease
Because of caffeine's effect on the heart, several studies have explored whether a link exists between caffeine and cardiovascular disease. The findings suggest that consuming moderate amounts of caffeine does not raise the risk of heart problems. For example, a study published in "Circulation" in 2006 found that, in more than 120,000 men and women evaluated, no correlation existed between coronary artery disease and coffee consumption. Other studies drew similar conclusions, indicating no definite link between heart disease and caffeine intake.
Recommendations
The Mayo Clinic says that a moderate daily dose of caffeine is 200 to 300 mg -- the amount in 2 to 4 cups of coffee. Heavier caffeine use, in the range of 500 to 600 mg daily, or 4 to 7 cups of coffee, is excessive and may produce side effects, including nervousness, insomnia, irritability, tremors and frequent bouts of heart palpitations. If you consume large amounts of caffeine or if you experience any of these side effects, consider decreasing your intake of caffeinated beverages. Cut down gradually, to avoid headaches or other symptoms of withdrawal. Consult your doctor to determine if your caffeine consumption is appropriate for you.
Member Comments