Caffeinated Drinks Linked to Lower Diabetes and Heart Attack Risk, Study Finds

Coffee and tea are not just beloved morning rituals; they may also hold the key to better heart health. Recent findings suggest that these popular beverages could significantly lower the risk of serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. Dive into the study’s insights to understand how your daily cup can be more than just a caffeine fix.

• Drinking caffeinated coffee and tea daily may reduce your risk for cardiometabolic diseases, according to one study.

• The researchers found that drinking two to three cups of coffee or tea per day offered the most benefits.

• Experts explain how the antioxidants in these sips support your heart and metabolic health.

Coffee and tea rank among the most cherished beverages globally, renowned for their multitude of health benefits. From extending lifespan to reducing inflammation, these drinks have garnered significant attention. A recent study suggests they may also help lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Below, we explore the findings and their implications.

Meet the experts: Adedapo Iluyomade, M.D., a preventative cardiologist at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute; Melissa Mroz-Planells, D.C.N., R.D.N., a national media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and a member of the Prevention Medical Review Board.

The research was published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, which examined the beverage choices of 188,000 participants aged 37 to 73 from the U.K. Biobank. These individuals completed questionnaires regarding their beverage intake over a 24-hour period. From this group, 172,000 people specified that they consumed caffeinated coffee or tea and had no previous diagnoses of cardiometabolic diseases (defined as having at least two of type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or stroke) when the study commenced.

After following these participants for approximately 12 years, researchers found that consuming two to three cups of coffee or up to three cups of tea daily was optimal for cardiometabolic health. Those drinking around 200 to 300 milligrams (mg) of caffeine daily faced a significantly lower risk of cardiometabolic diseases compared to those with less than 100 mg. Notably, coffee drinkers exhibited nearly a 50% reduction in risk, while tea drinkers and those who consumed a mix of both had a 40% decrease in their risk of developing such diseases. Specifically, tea drinkers experienced the greatest benefit with three cups per day, but this effect diminished with higher intake.

Furthermore, the study noted that even individuals consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine daily—only 4% of caffeine drinkers in the study—did not face negative consequences regarding their cardiometabolic health.

How do these energizing drinks contribute to protection against diabetes and heart disease? According to Dr. Iluyomade, caffeinated coffee and tea are rich in antioxidants that shield cells from damage. “Both beverages can enhance your body’s sugar processing, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy blood vessels, mitigating risks associated with conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease,” he explained. By minimizing harmful effects, moderate consumption of these drinks can lead to improved overall health and lower disease risk.

Dr. Iluyomade highlighted the differing benefits of coffee and tea. “While coffee tends to more effectively manage blood sugar, tea—especially green tea—improves blood vessel function and reduces blood pressure.” This variance arises from the distinct antioxidants found in each drink. “Coffee generally has higher concentrations of certain antioxidants, like chlorogenic acids, whereas tea is abundant in flavonoids, particularly catechins,” he clarified.

This study focused specifically on caffeinated drinks. Nevertheless, decaffeinated coffee and tea still contain numerous beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols, as noted by Dr. Iluyomade. “Though caffeine aids in boosting metabolism and how your body processes sugar,” he added, “decaf is an excellent choice for those sensitive to caffeine, while the caffeinated varieties may offer slight advantages in disease prevention.”

Curious if other caffeinated beverages provide similar benefits? Unfortunately, they likely do not, according to Dr. Iluyomade. While energy drinks contain caffeine, they are often laden with sugar and artificial components that can harm heart health. “Unlike coffee and tea, which are rich in beneficial compounds, energy drinks lack these health properties and can elevate risks like high blood pressure,” he noted, stressing the importance of choosing natural caffeine sources over processed alternatives.

The bottom line

Dr. Iluyomade stated that this study reinforces the accumulating evidence that moderate consumption of coffee or tea, particularly caffeinated varieties, can reduce the risk of cardiometabolic diseases. “These findings underscore the potential role of coffee and tea in preventing major health issues, including type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and strokes,” he said. This emphasizes the importance of dietary habits in managing and lowering cardiometabolic risk, especially as these diseases increasingly burden global health.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises that most adults limit their caffeine intake to 400 mg per day, roughly equivalent to two to three 12-ounce cups of coffee. However, individuals may respond differently to caffeine, so it’s recommended to consult with a doctor about safe caffeine levels, especially for those with conditions like high blood pressure or irregular heart rhythms. “Overall lifestyle choices, including diet, physical activity, and stress management, are vital for maintaining health,” he added. While these beverages can complement a heart-healthy lifestyle, moderation is essential.

Additionally, consider how you sweeten your drinks, suggests Melissa Mroz-Planells, D.C.N., R.D.N.. “Excessive cream and sugar can counteract your risk-reduction efforts.” Opt for a dash of low-fat milk or a dairy alternative, keeping sweeteners to a minimum—like a single sugar cube, a teaspoon of honey, or a non-caloric sweetener.

Key Takeaways

• Daily consumption of caffeinated coffee and tea may lower the risk of cardiometabolic diseases.
• Two to three cups of coffee or tea a day yield the most health benefits.
• Antioxidants in coffee and tea promote heart and metabolic health.
• Moderate caffeine intake appears safe, even for those consuming over 400 mg daily.
• Different compounds in coffee and tea have unique health benefits.
• Caffeinated options show more significant disease prevention advantages compared to decaf.

FAQ

Can drinking coffee or tea really help reduce disease risk?

Yes, studies indicate that consuming moderate amounts of caffeinated coffee or tea can lower the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

How much coffee or tea should I drink?

Experts suggest that two to three cups of coffee or tea each day may provide optimal health benefits.

Are there any negative effects of consuming too much caffeine?

While most adults can safely consume up to 400 mg of caffeine per day, individual sensitivities vary. It’s best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have health concerns.

Can I benefit from decaf coffee or tea?

Decaffeinated drinks still contain beneficial antioxidants, but caffeinated versions may offer additional advantages for lowering disease risk.

Are energy drinks as healthy as coffee and tea?

Energy drinks typically contain harmful sugars and artificial ingredients, thus lacking the health benefits found in coffee and tea.

In conclusion, incorporating coffee and tea into your daily routine may not only be a flavorful choice but also a beneficial one for your heart and overall well-being. Moderation and mindful consumption can help you enjoy these beverages while maximizing their potential health advantages.

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