Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

Answer:

Studies of populations suggest that drinking a moderate amount of coffee may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including certain arrythmias (such as atrial fibrillation), stroke, and death from heart attack and other causes.

However, the news is not all good. Among people with very high blood pressure, even modest amounts of coffee may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack. In addition, certain types of coffee may increase levels of cholesterol and are associated with an increased risk of dementia. There is also concern about pesticides in coffee, whether coffee can worsen symptoms of burning mouth syndrome, and intake of large amounts of coffee during pregnancy.

A small clinical trial among healthy adults has also investigated the effects of caffeinated coffee on the occurrence of premature atrial contractions (PACs) and premature ventricular contractions (PACs), -- sometimes referred to as “heart palpitations,” as well as its effects on activity levels, blood sugar levels, and sleep.

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