Coffee may protect against irregular heartbeat, study finds
New study suggests coffee reduces risk of atrial fibrillation by 39%.
Why it matters
- Coffee drinkers had significantly lower risk of irregular heartbeat compared to non-drinkers.
- Challenges common medical advice to avoid coffee for heart health.
By the numbers
- 200 participants in a 6-month trial.
- 39% lower risk of recurrent AF events in coffee drinkers.
The big picture
- Atrial fibrillation is a serious condition affecting over 10 million US adults.
- Study suggests coffee may have protective benefits, possibly due to increased physical activity, reduced blood pressure, and anti-inflammatory properties.
What they're saying
- Experts surprised by results, suggesting coffee may be safe and even beneficial for AF patients.
- Some commenters question if caffeine alone is responsible or if other compounds in coffee play a role.
Caveats
- Study challenges conventional wisdom but may not apply to everyone.
- Research suggests further investigation is needed.
What’s next
- Further research to confirm findings and explore mechanisms behind coffee's protective effects.
- Potential revision of medical advice regarding coffee consumption for AF patients.