New research challenges long-held beliefs about coffee and heart health, suggesting that moderate daily consumption may actually protect against atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm disorder. The study, published in JAMA, indicates that individuals with AFib who continue drinking roughly one cup of coffee per day experience fewer irregular heartbeat episodes compared to those who abstain.
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The Study Findings
Researchers enrolled 200 adults diagnosed with AFib, all regular caffeine consumers, and randomly assigned them to either continue their usual coffee intake (approximately one cup daily) or eliminate caffeine for six months. The results were striking: 47% of the coffee-drinking group experienced AFib or atrial flutter episodes lasting over 30 seconds, while 64% of the caffeine-free group had similar recurrences.
This suggests that coffee isn’t just not harmful for people with AFib—it may offer a protective effect. Christopher X. Wong, MBBS, PhD, lead study author and cardiologist at Adelaide Medical School, notes that this is “exciting evidence” supporting the safety and potential benefits of moderate coffee consumption for those with the condition.
Why Might Coffee Help?
The connection between coffee and reduced AFib episodes isn’t fully understood, but experts believe it may be linked to increased physical activity. A 2023 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that coffee drinkers walk an average of 1,000 more steps per day than non-coffee drinkers.
Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist, suggests that caffeine’s mild energy boost could encourage people to be more active, thereby lowering their risk of AFib. “It could be that caffeine gives people just enough of that extra energy kick to have them get out of their chair and go for that walk that we want them to do,” he explains.
How Much Coffee Is Too Much?
This study specifically examined the effects of about one cup of coffee per day (seven cups per week). Researchers caution that consuming significantly larger amounts may not be safe. The optimal dosage remains unclear, and excessive caffeine intake can have adverse health effects.
Exercise and AFib Risk Reduction
Regardless of coffee consumption, regular exercise is crucial for heart health. Current guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities twice weekly.
The key takeaway is that moderate coffee intake may encourage increased physical activity, offering a potential benefit for individuals with AFib. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes, particularly if you have preexisting heart conditions
