Coffee and tea are incredibly healthy beverages.
Most types contain caffeine, a substance that may boost your mood,
metabolism and mental and physical performance. Studies have also shown that
it’s safe for most people when consumed in low-to-moderate amounts.
However, high doses of caffeine may have unpleasant and even
dangerous side effects.
Research has shown that your genes have a major influence on
your tolerance to it. Some can consume much more caffeine than others without
experiencing negative effects (5Trusted Source, 6Trusted Source).
What’s more, individuals who aren’t used to caffeine may
experience symptoms after consuming what is typically considered a moderate
dose (4Trusted
Source, 7Trusted Source).
Overall, caffeine doesn’t seem to increase the risk of heart
disease or stroke in most people.
However, it has been shown to raise blood pressure in several
studies due to its stimulatory effect on the nervous system (33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source, 35Trusted Source, 36Trusted Source).
Elevated blood pressure is a risk factor for heart attack and
stroke because it may damage arteries over time, restricting the flow of blood
to your heart and brain.
Fortunately, caffeine’s effect on blood pressure seems to be
temporary. Also, it seems to have the strongest impact on people who aren’t
used to consuming it.
High caffeine intake has also been shown to raise blood pressure
during exercise in healthy people, as well as in those with mildly elevated
blood pressure (37Trusted
Source, 38Trusted Source).
Therefore, paying attention to the dosage and timing of caffeine
is important, especially if you already have high blood pressure.
Summary: Caffeine seems
to raise blood pressure when consumed at high doses or prior to exercise, as
well as in people who rarely consume it. But this effect may only be temporary,
so it’s best to monitor your response.
