Coffeeclues

There is a direct correlation between black coffee and blood pressure. Caffeine component in coffee is responsible for constricted blood vessels and cause elevated blood pressure. So, there is a need to limit coffee intake to 2 to 3 cups a day.

Black Coffee and Blood Pressure

• Relation between black coffee and blood pressure is often a matter of controversy. The most important constituent in coffee is caffeine, which acts as an stimulant. It is also found in berries, nuts and leaves of certain plants.
• Caffeine content in coffee is more when compared to tea. Caffeine acts as a powerful stimulant and raises blood pressure. It improves the activity of central nervous system and helps the persons to stay more focused and alert. The enhanced activity causes constricted blood vessels and alters the blood circulation to the heart.
• Adenosine a hormone interacts with the brain cells and causes the arteries to widen. Widened arteries helps in proper flow of blood to the heart. However, caffeine blocks the release of this hormone and constricts the blood vessel leading to high blood pressure.
• Caffeine content in coffee is also known to stimulate adrenal gland. The so stimulated adrenal gland produces adrenaline and releases it throughout the body and causes increased blood pressure.
• The increase in blood pressure does not last long and shows temporary effects. Its effects are short lived and small. However, moderate amounts of coffee should be taken. About 2 to 3 cups should be the minimal intake of coffee in a day.
• Effects of caffeine on blood pressure is different for men and women. In men, increase in blood pressure is due to constricted blood vessels and increased resistance of blood vessels to the blood flow. In case of women, it raises blood pressure by increasing heart activity.
• Polyphenols present in coffee is effective for lowering the risk of cancer, heart disease and clot formation. Coffee contains caffeine component that causes high blood pressure, but other components in it show beneficial effects. So, there is an need to take coffee in moderate amounts.