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Mixing High Blood Pressure and Caffeine - A Definite No-no

By: Robert L Brown

Craving for your daily caffeine fix? Well, if you have high blood pressure, think again before you help yourself to a cup of freshly brewed coffee. This article gives you four reasons why caffeine and high blood pressure simply won't mix:

1. Caffeine is a stimulant - Albeit a mild stimulant, caffeine can contribute to the rise of blood pressure. If your blood pressure level is already high, then this can pose some problems for you. Studies have not really shed light on why caffeine is linked to high blood pressure. Some studies show that those who have a regular intake of caffeine develop a tolerance to it while other studies show that those who regularly take caffeine have higher blood pressure. However, most of these studies agree that cream, sugar and other food have a tendency to dilute caffeine's effect on the body.

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 causes increased Artherosclerosis risk - A study presented to the American Society of Hypertension in 2002 has confirmed the effects of caffeine on the arteries of people suffering from high blood pressure. The study found that those who have high blood pressure and continue to take caffeine are much more susceptible to hardening of the arteries. However, those who conducted the study state that it is still too early to make definitive conclusions

4. Caffeine can cause chronic heart illnesses - High blood pressure is closely related to chronic heart illness. The higher your blood pressure is, the more chances of developing heart problems. In fact, drinking over four cups of coffee can raise the odds of your developing a heart illness.

Even though caffeine has been blamed as one of the culprits behind high blood pressure almost 80% of people worldwide take it in everyday in different forms. It may be difficult to avoid caffeine because it is present in common beverages like chocolate drinks, soft drinks, tea and coffee. Here is a quick guide to the different foods you might find it in as well as the amount of caffeine contained:

*plain black tea (around 70 mg), *8-ounces of brewed coffee (135 mg), *Pepsi 12-ounces can (37.5 mg), *a bar of chocolate, 1.45 ounces (27 mg), *pain relievers (60 mg), *one bottle of Red Bull (80 mg), *Midol (usually taken for menstruation pains) (60 mg).

Even when you do not have high blood pressure, doctors recommend up to only two 12-ounce cups of coffee. Also, avoid other drinks that contain caffeine. Soft drinks or tea can raise your intake of caffeine a day.

If you already have high blood pressure, it is best to minimize further increases by minimizing, if not avoiding, caffeine intake. That way, you are able to help keep your blood pressure at a safe level.

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

Related resources: Learn more details about ways to lower blood pressure as well as home remedies for high blood pressure - just click the links for more details.

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