A new study published in JAMA Network suggests that drinking coffee daily may reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation by nearly 40%.
The study was a prospective, open-label, randomized clinical trial that included 200 adults who regularly drank caffeinated coffee and who had a history of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. The participants were randomized into two groups: one group was assigned to drink caffeinated coffee daily (at least one cup), while the other group was assigned to avoid coffee and caffeine for six months. At the end of the six-month trial, both groups were tested for the recurrence of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Coffee is conventionally associated with changes in heart rhythm, but a randomized clinical trial on coffee consumption and atrial fibrillation had not been previously conducted. This study sought to clinically determine how regular coffee drinking affects the occurrence of atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.
The results showed that, at the end of the six-month study, the participants in the coffee-drinking group had a 39% lower risk of experiencing recurring atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter compared to the group who abstained from coffee and caffeine. This result suggests a significant benefit from drinking caffeinated coffee for those who experience either condition.
The authors stated that they found their results astounding. Previous wisdom and advice from doctors has been to avoid coffee and caffeine if patients have any heart rhythm issues, including atrial fibrillation. However, the results of this study suggest that coffee is safe and likely even protective for those with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. While the mechanism of this effect is unknown, the authors had several possible theories. Coffee is known to increase physical activity, and physical activity is associated with a lower risk of atrial fibrillation. Coffee also has anti-inflammatory properties, which could have a positive effect on atrial fibrillation.
Sources: JAMA Network, Science Daily