More than just a stimulant: Reduced cardiovascular risk through coffee

Many people believe that stimulants like coffee are unhealthy . But recent studies show otherwise. Not everything that's enjoyable is harmful to our health—quite the opposite.

Dr. Stefan Waller was born in Berlin in 1974. He has been a specialist in internal medicine since 2008 and a specialist in cardiology since 2013. Dr. Waller has developed an online heart coaching program in which he accompanies people after a heart attack or with arteriosclerosis into a heart-healthy life without fear. He also works on digital strategies for improved patient education. This includes a YouTube channel, consulting activities, and the development of digital health coaching approaches. More information can be found on his website " Dr-heart.de ."

Coffee is a daily companion for many of us. But did you know that it not only provides a much-needed energy boost, but also has health-promoting properties? In addition to caffeine, coffee contains numerous phytochemicals that can have positive effects on our bodies.

A 2013 meta-study evaluating 36 individual studies with over 1 million participants showed a U-shaped relationship between coffee consumption and cardiovascular risk. The optimal effect was observed with consumption of 3 to 5 cups of coffee per day. Individuals with this consumption pattern had a 15% lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to non-coffee drinkers.

Caffeine increases nitric oxide concentrations in the blood, dilates blood vessels, and stimulates the central nervous system. A recent study published in the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism" examined the direct effects of caffeine on heart health. The study analyzed data from over 500,000 Britons, of which nearly 200,000 participants were included in the analysis.

The results of the study are impressive: People with higher consumption of coffee, tea, or caffeinated beverages in general had a nearly 40% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease . This effect was evident for both coffee and tea consumption. However, the positive effect was somewhat weakened with very high caffeine consumption – with the exception of tea.

As is often the case, it's the amount and the preparation that count. The health benefits of caffeine are best achieved with 3 to 5 cups of coffee per day. How the caffeine is consumed is also important. A simple, unsweetened filter coffee or a cup of tea is preferable to sugary energy drinks or heavily sweetened coffee drinks with cream.

Bottom line: When consumed in moderation, caffeine can actually have a positive impact on your heart health. So enjoy your coffee or tea with a clear conscience.

“ The Dr. Heart Heart Coach ” – Prevent heart attacks, live better and more consciously by Stefan Waller.

This article is from the EXPERTS Circle – a network of selected experts with in-depth knowledge and many years of experience. The content is based on individual assessments and is aligned with the current state of science and practice.