Is Your Morning Coffee Heart-Safe?

A new American Heart Association Scientific Statement reviewed available evidence on caffeine and cardiovascular disease. It found that moderate coffee consumption is safe for most adults and is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Habitual coffee drinkers show lower rates of coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and atrial fibrillation. The greatest benefit is generally observed with 2–4 cups of coffee per day. Although caffeine can cause a temporary rise in blood pressure, long-term habitual consumption has minimal sustained effects in most individuals. The observed benefits likely stem not only from caffeine but also from other bioactive compounds present in coffee. However, these findings do not extend to high-dose caffeine products or energy drinks, which may potentially harm the cardiovascular system.