March 4th, 2010

Coffee and Health Effects: A Cup of Joe Could Cut Back Heart Problems.  Office workers around the world will be thrilled to note that their morning cup of Joe could reap some health benefits.  Researchers recently discovered that 18% reduction in the risk of being hospitalized for rhythm disturbances.

The findings will be officially revealed at  the American Heart Association’s 50th Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, which takes place in San Francisco.

The results of the study are strange, as many have always noted that large doses of caffeine actually cause heart flutters in some individuals. However, studies previously haven’t been done on the health effects of daily intake of coffee.

The large group of participants was broken down as follows:

1. 27% did not drink coffee.
2. 14% had less than a cup a day.
3. 42% had one to three cups a day.
4. 17% had four or more cups a day

Those who drank the most coffee had the least likelihood for being hospitalized for a heart rhythm problem.

Researchers have typically had an inkling that coffee didn’t cause heart rythm problems as previously discussed.  However, some note that those already suffering from a problem may find that caffeine aggravates it.

A weakness in the study notes that the study was done using hospital coding as diagnoses.  Sometimes, these codes can be incorrect. 

If you are concerned about heart rhythm problems, speak with your doctor.  They know your personal situation and can advise you as to what the safe amount of coffee to drink a day is.

Source:

Modern Medicine

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