A new study conducted by the University of Bologna and published in the journal Nutrients has revealed that drinking three or more cups of coffee daily is associated with lower blood pressure. The study examined data from 720 men and 783 women from the Brisighella Heart Study, and found that coffee consumption was linked to lower peripheral and central blood pressure. Lead author Dr. Arrigo F.G. Cicero suggested that moderate coffee consumption could be safe for those with hypertension. It is believed that the antioxidants and bioactive compounds found in coffee, such as chlorogenic acid and quercetin, are responsible for the blood pressure-lowering effect.
Cardiologist Dr. Jim Liu noted that, while the study is small and focuses on a specific population, its findings are consistent with prior research about how coffee affects blood pressure. He added that, for people with hypertension who consume moderate amounts of coffee, this study provides more reassuring data that it’s okay to continue drinking moderate amounts of coffee and that it won’t negatively impact blood pressure. The American Heart Association advises people to avoid drinking “too much” coffee because of its ability to raise blood pressure. However, this new study suggests that moderate coffee consumption may be beneficial for those with hypertension. Further research is needed to confirm this finding.