Consuming too much caffeine can raise your blood pressure even if you have not been diagnosed with hypertension, or high blood pressure. Although the effect is usually temporary, if you do have hypertension, even a temporary elevation in blood pressure may be a cause for concern. This is why many physicians advise their hypertensive patients to limit or avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks and other products that contain caffeine. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, have it checked by your doctor or another health professional.
Effect of Caffeine on Normal Blood Pressure
Normal blood pressure is a systolic pressure below 120 and a diastolic pressure below 80. Systolic pressure, the top number in a reading, measures the pressure your heart exerts as it pumps blood. Diastolic pressure, the bottom number in a reading, measures the force of blood against your arterial walls. Drinking just 2 or 3 cups of coffee can elevate your systolic pressure up to 14 points and your diastolic pressure by up to 13 points, according to Dr. Sheldon Sheps at the Mayo Clinic. As of publication, it is unknown what causes this increase in pressure. There is some speculation that caffeine may block a hormone that widens your arteries.
Research on Caffeine and Hypertension
If you are concerned about your blood pressure, Sheps advises that you limit your total caffeine consumption to no more than 200 mg each day. That is the amount of caffeine in about 24 oz. of coffee. In the January 2004 issue of "Psychosomatic Medicine," Dr. Jack James stated that most people do not develop a tolerance to caffeine. Even after prolonged caffeine use, it will still raise your blood pressure.
Food and Drinks Containing Caffeine
If you are concerned about your blood pressure, avoid foods and drinks that contain caffeine. There are obvious sources of caffeine, such as coffee, tea and energy drinks and soda. But caffeine is also an ingredient in chocolate candy, chocolate milk, pudding and some varieties of yogurt. Certain medications also contain caffeine, including stimulants and pain medication such as acetaminophen and aspirin. If you are trying to limit your caffeine exposure, always read the ingredients of food or drinks prior to purchasing them.
Warnings
The amount of caffeine in coffee and tea can vary greatly depending on how it is prepared and the brand name. Children are especially sensitive to the effects of caffeine, so their exposure should be limited. If you are pregnant or nursing, your physician may advise that you reduce your caffeine consumption. To help ensure accurate blood pressure readings, avoid eating or drinking caffeinated products about 30 minutes before checking your blood pressure.
