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Kick the caffeine habit for heart health

Learn how too much caffeine can affect your heart and cause anxiety, jitters, increased heart rate and irregular heartbeat.

When you need a pick-me-up, it’s hard to beat the power of caffeine. Whether it’s a fragrant cup of freshly brewed coffee, a glass of iced tea or your favorite energy drink, caffeine can often be  the ticket for a much-needed jolt of energy when your get-up-and-go is lacking.

Caffeine in moderation can have health benefits, according to the American Heart Association, including:

  • Increased energy
  • Sharpened mental focus, concentration and brain performance
  • Improved endurance during exercise or vigorous physical activity
  • Stimulated central nervous system

Too much caffeine, however, turns all that energy into nervous jitters and can have negative effects on your health.

Here’s a look at what too much caffeine can do to your heart health.

Caffeine affects different people in different ways. Some people are highly sensitive while others seem to ingest large amounts without a noticeable effect. You may have overindulged if you have the following symptoms:

  • Insomnia
  • Headache
  • Anxiety
  • Upset stomach or nausea
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Muscle tremors

The team at Providence can help you balance all the elements of your diet for better health and wellness. Visit our provider directory

 

Related Resources

Caffeine--How Much is in Your Favorite Drink? (Infographic)

Healthy Ways to Reboot After a Long Night

Your coffee habit has a genetic explanation

FDA Guidelines: Spilling the Beans: How Much Caffeine is Too Much?

This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

About the Author

The Providence Heart & Vascular Team is committed to bringing you many years of expertise and experience to help you understand how to prevent, treat and recover from cardiovascular diseases and conditions. From tips to eating better to exercise and everything in between, our clinical experts know how to help you help your heart.