Caffeine can block hormones that keep arteries open, trigger adrenaline release, and temporarily raise blood pressure. While a direct link to chronic high blood pressure is unproven, those with related heart conditions may benefit from avoiding caffeine. Caffeine may also narrow arteries and stimulate the adrenal gland, leading to increased blood pressure.
Caffeine and high blood pressure may be linked through the body’s hormonal response to the presence of the chemical in the bloodstream. Some hormones, which help keep arteries open and wide for blood flow, can be blocked by caffeine. Other stimulating hormones, such as adrenaline, can also be triggered to release, increasing the heart rate after caffeine consumption. There is no conclusive medical evidence to suggest that caffeine can lead to chronic high blood pressure, however, those who suffer from it and other related heart conditions may benefit from avoiding this chemical.
Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure and is caused by large amounts of blood pumping heavily against the artery walls. As an individual ages, their arteries may begin to narrow and the walls weaken. Over a long period of time, high blood pressure can lead to some forms of heart disease.
While a direct link between caffeine and high blood pressure has not been proven, foods and beverages containing caffeine have the ability to temporarily raise an individual’s blood pressure. Most people develop chronic hypertension with age or as a result of diet and genetic predisposition. These people may benefit from avoiding caffeine consumption and should consult their doctors about adjusting their daily or weekly consumption.
Some doctors believe that one way caffeine and high blood pressure may be linked is the size of the body’s arteries. Caffeine is thought to have the ability to block the release of certain hormones, such as adenosine, which can actually help keep arterial pathways wider. As the walls begin to narrow towards each other, more pressure is applied to the blood flowing through them. The result is an increase in blood pressure. Those who already suffer from narrowed arteries and who may have had previous heart disease or heart attacks should generally avoid consuming caffeinated beverages.
It is also possible that caffeine may stimulate the adrenal gland. Once the adrenal gland has been activated to higher levels, it pumps more adrenaline around the body, which drives up blood pressure. However, not all individuals will experience this type of reaction, and those who drink caffeine regularly may be able to develop a tolerance to it, thus making them immune to suspected links between caffeine and high blood pressure. To check whether or not a person’s body is affected by caffeine, they can consume a caffeine-containing beverage and then monitor their heart rate within 30 to 60 minutes. If it’s increased dramatically, then you can be sure that caffeine has a tendency to affect your blood pressure.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
