The combination of coffee consumption and hypertension is a much discussed topic: let’s try to clarify this aspect.
High blood pressure, known in medical language as arterial hypertension , is a major risk factor for cardiovascular health. This condition can be managed from a nutritional point of view, through some food choices.
Much debated in this context, coffee consumption is also assessed on a case-by-case basis. Definitely loved globally, coffee is in fact one of the most consumed beverages in the world. Inside, it contains more than a thousand chemical components, although its composition may vary based on some factors (botanical type, production / preparation methods, etc.). Among the main components of coffee, caffeine is undoubtedly the best known substance, to which various properties are attributed. In general, coffee boasts a tonic and stimulating effect.
That said, does coffee raise blood pressure? What to do in case of hypertension? Are there valid alternatives to coffee in case of hypertension? In the following paragraphs, we will try to answer these questions.
Can anyone with high blood pressure drink coffee?
Over the years, health insiders have tried to frame the effects that coffee consumption could have on cardiovascular health. In this regard, several scientific studies are available on the subject.
The correlation between caffeine and hypertension, and the effects exerted by the other chemical components on blood pressure, make the consumption of coffee a peculiar aspect. A recent publication summarizes the evidence available to date, stating that the moderate and habitual consumption of coffee (1 – 3 cups a day), relative to people suffering from high blood pressure, does not seem to increase this problem.
In addition, several studies suggest that regular coffee users do not develop hypertension and, apart from the moderate amounts of consumption, this habit even seems to lower the risk. On the contrary, the occasional consumption of coffee seems to have a transitory effect on blood pressure.
How much does coffee raise the pressure?
The same scientific publication cited above (the first of this paragraph) reports an increase in blood pressure of approximately 8.14 mmHg – 5.75 mmHg (systolic and diastolic pressure, respectively) for a consumption of 200 – 300 mg of caffeine, or the quantity corresponding, more or less, to two cups of coffee. We recall that this increase would appear to be only transitory.
How many coffees a day can you drink with high blood pressure?
So, how many coffees a day are allowed for those with arterial hypertension? As can be understood from the previous paragraph, even people suffering from high blood pressure can indulge in coffee daily, as long as in moderate quantities. The consumption of this drink, in quantities between one and three cups a day, seems to represent the right compromise for people suffering from hypertension.
How to replace coffee with alternatives that do not raise the pressure
Although moderate and conscious consumption of coffee is not a real problem for blood pressure management, it may be useful, in some cases, to replace coffee with other drinks that do not contain caffeine.
The first and more intuitive alternative to classic coffee is represented by decaffeinated, containing the substance in question only in traces. This drink is widely available on the market and is a valid alternative for those who love the typical aroma of coffee.
Drinks that do not contain caffeine include barley coffee (which does not raise the pressure) and ginseng drink, both of which are very pleasant in their organoleptic characteristics and useful for different properties.
Definitely similar to traditional coffee, both for the flavor and for the preparation method, chicory coffee represents a further alternative to try. This drink is caffeine-free and is readily available at retail outlets.
Little known, although interesting for its characteristics, yannoh is a caffeine-free drink with an aroma that recalls that of coffee. Yannoh is commercially available in both soluble and mocha versions, and is obtained by mixing different toasted vegetable components, among which brown rice, chickpeas and rye stand out.
In any case, it is advisable to evaluate, with the help of the attending physician, the potential interactions between these drinks (including classic coffee) and any drug therapies.
Conclusion
Thanks to its properties and intense aroma, coffee is particularly appreciated, representing a rich combination of taste and energy. The relationship between coffee consumption and high blood pressure has characterized numerous studies, arousing interest among consumers. The available evidence gives the green light to moderate and constant consumption of coffee, advising, in case of hypertension, to opt for the right quantities. However, depending on the needs, alternatives on the market can be used.
