Caffeine And High Blood Pressure - Why The Two Just Don't Mix

Craving for your daily caffeine fix? Well, if you have high blood pressure, think again before you help yourself to a cup of freshly brewed coffee. This article gives you four reasons why caffeine and high blood pressure simply won't mix:

1. Caffeine is a stimulant - Caffeine is believed to result in an increase in blood pressure, even though it is a mild stimulant. For some, this does not pose any health threats but for others who already have high blood pressure, it may spell disaster. Studies have not yet made clear what role caffeine plays in raising blood pressure levels. Some studies show that those who have regular caffeine intake have higher blood pressure levels. Other studies show that those who have a regular caffeine intake develop a tolerance for caffeine. However, these studies are in agreement with the fact that sugar, cream and other food have a mitigating effect on caffeine.

2. Caffeine sharply increase blood pressure levels - Some studies confirm that caffeine affects blood pressure almost immediately. Studies show that sharp rises in blood pressure after taking in caffeine, although this increase is only temporary. Caffeine's long term effect on blood pressure is yet to be discovered. The sharp rise of blood pressure immediately after taking caffeine is attributed to caffeine's mitigating effect on adenosine's ability to widen the artery. As a result, blood vessels are constricted and this leads to higher blood pressure. It is also believed that caffeine releases cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn results to a rise in blood pressure levels.

3. It causes increased Artherosclerosis risk - A study presented to the American Society of Hypertension in 2002 has confirmed the effects of caffeine on the arteries of people suffering from high blood pressure. The study found that those who have high blood pressure and continue to take caffeine are much more susceptible to hardening of the arteries. However, those who conducted the study state that it is still too early to make definitive conclusions

4. Caffeine can cause chronic heart illnesses - High blood pressure is closely related to chronic heart illness. The higher your blood pressure is, the more chances of developing heart problems. In fact, drinking over four cups of coffee can raise the odds of your developing a heart illness.

Even though caffeine has been blamed as one of the culprits behind high blood pressure almost 80% of people worldwide take it in everyday in different forms. It may be difficult to avoid caffeine because it is present in common beverages like chocolate drinks, soft drinks, tea and coffee. Here is a quick guide to the different foods you might find it in as well as the amount of caffeine contained:

*brewed coffee, 8-ounces - 135 mg, *12-ounce Pepsi - 37.5 mg, *black tea, plain - around 70 mg, *one chocolate bar, 1.45 ounces - 27 mg, *Midol (taken for menstruation pains) and other pain relievers - 60 mg, a bottle of Red Bull - 80 mg.

Even when you do not have high blood pressure, doctors recommend up to only two 12-ounce cups of coffee. Also, avoid other drinks that contain caffeine. Soft drinks or tea can raise your intake of caffeine a day.

If you already have high blood pressure, it is best to minimize further increases by minimizing, if not avoiding, caffeine intake. That way, you are able to help keep your blood pressure at a safe level.

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Related resources: Find out more about ways to lower blood pressure and also an effective home remedy for high blood pressure - visit the links to the left for more info.

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