High Blood Pressure and Caffeine - A Dangerous Combination

By: Robert L Brown..

Caffeine and high blood pressure can be a deadly combination. Simply said, the two things don't mix. Here are four reasons why caffeine is not good for those with hypertension:

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 can raise blood pressure levels quickly - Studies show an immediate rise in blood pressure following caffeine intake. This effect is temporary, especially among those who do not have an intake of caffeine regularly. Doctors believe that this rise in blood pressure levels is linked to caffeine's ability to block the hormone adenosine from widening the artery. Constricted arteries result in a rise in blood pressure levels. Another theory is that caffeine releases cortisol and adrenaline, which can also increase blood pressure. It is important to note that studies have yet to discover the long term effect of caffeine on one's blood pressure levels.

3. It makes one more susceptible to Artherosclerosis - The American Society of Hypertension conducted a study in 2002 that discovered the relationship between caffeine and the hardening of the arteries. The study confirmed that those with high blood pressure and who have a regular intake of caffeine are more prone to Artherosclerosis. What is to be noted is that the study also stated that it is too early to make firm conclusions about this subject.

4. Caffeine can cause heart problems - Chronic heart problems are partially attributed to high blood pressure. As such, caffeine can contribute to heart problems as it helps increase blood pressure levels. Drinking more than four cups of coffee increases one's probabilities to develop heart problems.

Around 80% of people the world over still take caffeine daily, despite its reputation as a high blood pressure inducer. Caffeine can be taken in different forms, particularly in common beverages. Soft drinks, chocolate drinks, coffee and tea are some examples. Here are some foods with caffeine.

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

Doctors have advised even those not suffering from high blood pressure to limit their caffeine intake to about two 12-ounce cups of coffee. But you should also watch out for other beverages that contain caffeine like tea or soft drinks as they can increase the amount of caffeine taken on a daily basis.

As much as possible, try to minimize, if not totally avoid, any caffeine intake, particularly if you already have high blood pressure. This way, you help avoid any further increases in your blood pressure.

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Related resources: Learn more details about ways to lower blood pressure as well as natural remedies to lower blood pressure - visit the links to the left for more info.

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