TO BEAN OR NOT TO BEAN: LONG-TERM CAFFEINE USAGE AND RISK OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Abstract

Caffeine’s effects on the cardiovascular system have been a topic of increasing interest because of caffeine’s popularity and availability worldwide. There are studies that demonstrate positive effects of caffeine on the cardiovascular system that are balanced by conflicting studies that show negative effects. However, inconsistencies in caffeine sources, population differences, and a plethora of variables that make it difficult to group past cohort studies for analysis. It is concluded that, as emphasized in most of the studies reviewed, more research is needed to clarify caffeine’s long-term effects on cardiovascular disease. Regardless, the recency of literature supporting the benefits of caffeine on hypertension suggests caffeine may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The objective of this literature review is to summarize past research on caffeine, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease and identify potential focal points for future research.