American Heart Association says up to five cups of coffee daily may reduce heart disease risk
A new American Heart Association statement finds that drinking up to five cups of paper-filtered or instant coffee a day is generally safe and may be linked to lower rates of stroke, type-2 diabetes and heart failure, while warning against unfiltered coffee and energy drinks.
The American Heart Association released a scientific statement in the journal Circulation indicating that most adults can safely consume up to five cups of coffee per day. The review found associations between regular coffee intake and reduced risk of stroke, type-2 diabetes and heart failure, though the evidence on blood-pressure effects remains mixed.
"Coffee is potentially linked to lower risks of type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart failure, though its relationship with blood pressure is complex and data isn't entirely consistent across the board," said Dr. Jennifer Miao, a board-certified cardiologist and ABC News Medical Unit Fellow.
The AHA panel emphasized that the benefits apply only to paper-filtered or instant coffee, which remove the compound cafestol that can raise LDL cholesterol. Unfiltered preparations such as French press, espresso or Turkish coffee were not linked to the same protective effects.
The statement also distinguished coffee from synthetic caffeine products. Energy drinks, shots and pills were described as consistently associated with cardiovascular harm, including sudden spikes in blood pressure and irregular heart rhythms.
"The AHA distinguishes between coffee and energy drinks, which can pose significant cardiovascular harm," Miao added.
Genetic differences in the liver enzyme CYP1A2 affect how quickly individuals metabolize caffeine, influencing personal tolerance levels. The AHA advises people with existing heart conditions or risk factors to consult their healthcare providers before adjusting coffee consumption.
"Consume caffeine in moderation, not solely for potential health benefits," Miao recommended.