Caffeine and cardiovascular disease

A new American Heart Association (AHA) statement concludes that moderate caffeine consumption, primarily through coffee, is safe for most adults and is associated with a lower risk of several cardiovascular diseases. Moderate caffeine intake is defined as 400 mg per day, equivalent to approximately 3-5 cups of brewed coffee. Regular coffee drinkers have lower risk of coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation, and type 2 diabetes. The benefits are most consistently observed with habitual coffee consumption rather than occasional caffeine intake. Coffee contains numerous biologically active compounds besides caffeine, such as polyphenols and chlorogenic acids, which may contribute to the observed health benefits. Unfiltered coffee contains cafestol, which increases LDL cholesterol levels, while filtered coffee does not have this effect. Caffeine does not increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and does not increase the risk of heart failure.