Coffee May Lower Risk Of Irregular Heartbeats, Study Shows

A clinical trial challenges medical advice about coffee and heart rhythm disorders. The study tracked 200 patients with persistent irregular heartbeats for six months. Those who drank at least one cup of coffee daily had significantly lower recurrence rates than those who avoided caffeine—47% versus 64%. Coffee drinkers were 17% less likely to experience irregular heartbeats and went longer before episodes occurred. Gregory Marcus, a University of California San Francisco cardiologist, told NBC News the results show “how protective caffeinated coffee does seem to be to prevent atrial fibrillation.” The findings contradict common medical guidance for the 10 million Americans with atrial fibrillation. Mount Sinai cardiologist Johanna Contreras said the study shows patients “can have a cup of coffee in the morning and be OK if you have A-fib.” (Story URL)