The Coffee Machine

  
We all know that coffee contains caffeine, but is there a direct relationship between caffeine and blood pressure? Caffeine is a stimulant, causing jitters, nervousness and high blood pressure for some people. Studies have been shown that the amount of caffeine in two standard cups of coffee will increase your blood pressure in the short term. Of course this is dependant on many variables, such as whether you’re male or female, an occasional or long term coffee drinker, or if you have a family history.

If you’re not a regular coffee drinker, the a sharp rise in blood pressure usually occurs after consuming caffeine - this is only temporary. So how does caffeine do this? The most common opinion is that caffeine blocks the hormone called adenosine, causing the blood vessels to narrow. Caffeine is also known to release adrenaline, also causing an increase in blood pressure.

It has been said that long term coffee drinkers build up a tolerance to caffeine, so their blood pressure does not increase over the long term. There are differences of opinion on this one.

It’s usually recommended to have no more than three standard cups of coffee per day – this would provide approx. 300mg of caffeine. It’s also wise not to consume caffeine before you exercise, as physical activity increases your blood pressure naturally.

If you want to lower your blood pressure, then it’s probably a good idea to reduce or eliminate caffeine completely. Going cold turkey is not the best idea, so consult your doctor for advice.

For the rest of us – like anything else in life; coffee should be drunk in moderation.