2026-07-23 12:03:33
Coffee lovers can enjoy up to five cups a day without harming their hearts – and the popular drink could even help keep cardiovascular disease at bay, new guidance suggests.
Cardiologists from the American Heart Association say consuming up to 400mg of caffeine a day – roughly the equivalent of five cups of coffee – is generally safe for most adults and may lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes and heart failure.
The scientific statement, published in the journal Circulation, reviewed dozens of previous studies and found people drinking two to four cups of coffee a day had a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, heart failure and stroke.
Researchers believe naturally occurring compounds in coffee may help reduce inflammation and encourage healthy gut bacteria, potentially explaining its protective effects.
However, they warned the benefits are linked to black coffee or coffee without excessive sugar, cream or flavoured syrups, which may reduce its positive impact.
The experts also cautioned against getting caffeine from energy drinks and similar products.
They said the high caffeine levels found in energy drinks “may increase the risk of high blood pressure and irregular heart rhythm or arrhythmia”.
Professor Gregory Marcus, of the University of California and one of the guideline authors, said: “Caffeine consumed in coffee is a key part of daily life for millions of people, and in our review of the most recent research, for most adults, intake of up to 400 mg of caffeine/day, the equivalent of up to five cups of caffeinated coffee per day without added sugars or fillers, is safe and does not increase cardiovascular risk.
“However, high doses of caffeine, such as those found in energy drinks including energy shots, may have harmful effects on the heart and should be avoided.”
The researchers noted that caffeine affects everyone differently depending on factors such as age, genetics, metabolism, medication and underlying health conditions.
Professor Marcus added: “Although research suggests that caffeine consumption may be associated with certain cardiovascular benefits for some people, it’s important to remember that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ strategy for safe caffeine consumption.
“People can respond very differently to caffeine… What may be a reasonable amount for one person could cause unwanted effects, such as heart palpitations, anxiety or sleep disruption, in another.”
Visit Bang Bizarre (main website)
