Drinking Coffee: Study Finds Both Beneficial and Harmful Short-Term Health Effects
January 22, 2025—Cardiologists are raising concerns about a specific type of coffee that could be detrimental to your heart health. While millions of people rely on coffee to kickstart their mornings, experts emphasize the importance of how it’s prepared. The wrong choice could significantly impact your cardiovascular system.
Dr. Edo Paz, Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart, explains that black coffee in moderation can be beneficial. However, he cautions that excessive consumption may raise blood pressure and increase artery stiffness, both of which are harmful to heart health. Scientific studies present mixed results, but the general consensus is to stick to one to two cups daily.
Dr. Sam Setareh, Director of Clinical Cardiology at Beverly Hills Cardiovascular, supports this view. He highlights that moderate black coffee intake may lower the risk of heart failure and improve vascular function due to its antioxidant properties. However, the benefits are lost when coffee is loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats.
Sugar-sweetened coffee drinks are the real culprits, according to both experts. Popular options like caramel macchiatos or blended frappuccinos are packed with sugar and unhealthy fats, making them harmful to your heart. For instance, a grande caramel macchiato from Starbucks contains 33 grams of sugar—more than the American Heart Association’s daily recommendation.
“Added sugar has low nutritional value and can damage blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup inside arteries,” Dr. Paz warns. This increases the risk of cardiac disease and other conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. The combination of sugar and caffeine exacerbates these risks by spiking blood pressure and heart rate, which may lead to long-term inflammation and plaque formation.
Both cardiologists suggest avoiding pre-made sugary coffee drinks and opting for healthier alternatives. Making coffee at home allows you to control sugar levels and experiment with heart-friendly additions. Cinnamon, for example, is a great substitute for sugar and offers cardiovascular benefits. Unsweetened plant-based milk is another good option.
Dr. Paz emphasizes balance as the key to maintaining a healthy coffee habit. Even black coffee, when consumed excessively, can be harmful. He recommends enjoying one cup in the morning and switching to water or other non-caffeinated drinks for the rest of the day.
The advice is clear: steer clear of sugary coffee drinks and enjoy simpler preparations to protect your heart. By making mindful choices, your morning coffee can be a positive part of a heart-healthy lifestyle.
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