A new randomized trial suggests that drinking one cup of caffeinated coffee a day may lower the risk of recurrent atrial fibrillation by up to 39%. Researchers followed adults with persistent AFib for six months and found that those who were told to drink coffee had fewer repeat rhythm problems than those who avoided caffeine. The results challenge the long-held belief that caffeine makes AFib worse.
This study is important because it tested caffeine directly instead of relying on people’s past habits. Scientists think the benefits may come from coffee’s anti-inflammatory compounds, its possible long-term support for healthier blood pressure, or its gentle effects on the nervous system. People assigned to drink coffee also moved a bit more during the trial, which could play a role in reducing AFib episodes.
The researchers stress that these findings apply to moderate coffee intake and only to people who already tolerate caffeine well. Managing weight, sleep, blood pressure, and alcohol use are still key for AFib control. Larger studies are needed to see whether coffee helps more patients or whether other caffeinated drinks offer the same benefit.
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