Recent research suggests that caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and cocoa, may have a protective effect on the heart health of patients with the autoimmune disease lupus. Lupus is a condition that affects approximately 1.5 million Americans and at least 5 million people worldwide. People with lupus are at a higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease due to damage to the cells that line blood vessels. This damage can lead to plaque buildup, blood vessel blockages, and other cardiovascular issues, affecting up to one in four lupus patients.
Traditionally, doctors have offered recommendations to reduce the risk of heart disease in lupus patients, such as quitting smoking, lowering cholesterol, and controlling high blood pressure. However, new research suggests that moderate consumption of caffeine from sources like coffee may also play a protective role in heart health for these individuals. Laboratory results from The Sapienza University of Rome in Italy show that caffeine may actively promote the cells responsible for regenerating the lining of blood vessels, improving vascular health in lupus patients.
A study conducted at The Sapienza University of Rome investigated 31 lupus patients using a seven-day food questionnaire to assess the effects of caffeine consumption on vascular health. The results showed that participants who consumed caffeine during the week had better vascular health, as measured by the lining of their blood vessels. Caffeine has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and may lower the risk of cardiometabolic diseases, contributing to overall heart health.
While the study had limitations, such as a small sample size and results based on observations rather than mechanistic proof, it adds to a growing body of evidence that moderate coffee and caffeine consumption may benefit heart health in lupus patients. It is important for individuals to moderate their caffeine intake, limiting it to the recommended four cups a day and avoiding excessive amounts of added sugar and cream. Pregnant individuals and those with preexisting heart conditions should consult a healthcare provider before increasing their caffeine consumption.
Further research is needed to confirm the findings of this study and assess the long-term impact of coffee consumption on heart health in lupus patients. By providing patients with information on the potential role of diet in controlling the disease, researchers hope to shed light on the benefits of moderate caffeine consumption for individuals with lupus. For individuals with lupus, incorporating moderate amounts of coffee into their diet may be a simple and enjoyable way to support heart health alongside other recommended lifestyle changes.
