How Tea and Coffee Help Lower Heart Disease Risk

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. It happens when blood vessels leading to the heart become narrow, making it harder for the heart to get enough oxygen-rich blood. When this happens, the heart struggles to work properly, which can lead to chest pain, heart attacks, and other serious heart problems.

Scientists have found that daily habits, including the beverages people drink, may influence heart health. A study from the Netherlands discovered that drinking moderate amounts of tea or coffee may help lower the risk of CHD. This research adds to growing evidence that certain dietary choices can support a healthier heart and may even help people live longer.

However, diet is only one piece of the puzzle. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and, in some cases, taking heart health medications can help keep blood flowing properly and support heart function. Understanding how different lifestyle choices impact heart health allows people to make informed decisions about their well-being.

What is Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)?

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) happens when the arteries that bring oxygen-rich blood to the heart become too narrow or blocked. These arteries, called coronary arteries, help keep the heart strong and working properly. 

When plaque—a mix of fat, cholesterol, and other substances—builds up inside them, blood flow slows down. As a result, the heart doesn’t get enough oxygen, making it harder to pump blood. This can lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or even a heart attack if the blockage gets worse.

What Increases the Risk of CHD?

Several factors can make a person more likely to develop CHD:

• Diet and lifestyle – Eating many foods high in saturated fats and processed sugars can cause plaque buildup in the arteries.
• Lack of exercise – When people don’t stay active, the heart can weaken, and blood circulation slows down.
• Genetics – If close family members have had heart disease, the risk may be higher.
• Health conditions – Problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol can damage the arteries over time.

How is CHD Managed?

Taking care of heart health involves different steps. Some people may need heart health medications to help lower cholesterol, control blood pressure, or improve blood flow. Combining these treatments with healthy habits—such as eating a balanced diet and staying physically active—can help the heart work better and reduce the risk of complications. Making smart choices about food, exercise, and medical care can support long-term heart health.

How Tea and Coffee May Help the Heart

Tea and coffee are popular drinks enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Scientists have often debated whether these beverages are good or bad for the heart. 

Researchers in the Netherlands conducted a study to see if drinking tea and coffee could affect the risk of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). They focused on black tea and filtered coffee, which are commonly consumed in that region. After studying people’s diets and health records, they found that moderate tea and coffee consumption was linked to a lower risk of CHD.

What the Study Discovered

• Coffee and CHD Risk – Drinking 2 to 3 cups of coffee per day was associated with a lower chance of developing CHD. Researchers believe this is because coffee contains antioxidants and polyphenols, natural compounds that may protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation. However, adding large amounts of sugar or high-fat creamers could reduce these benefits.
• Tea and CHD Risk – The study showed that black tea had an even stronger effect on heart health. People who drank six or more cups of black tea per day had the greatest reduction in CHD risk. Black tea contains flavonoids, plant-based compounds that help keep arteries flexible and improve blood circulation.
• Long-Term Benefits – Regular tea and coffee drinkers, especially those who already had heart conditions, were found to have better long-term health outcomes compared to those who did not drink these beverages.

While this study suggests that tea and coffee may help support heart health, other factors also play an important role. Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking heart health medications when needed can further support a healthy heart and better circulation.

Benefits and Risks of Caffeine

Caffeine is a natural stimulant found in tea, coffee, and some other drinks. It affects the nervous system, helping people feel more awake and reducing tiredness for a short time. Many people drink caffeinated beverages to stay focused and energized. 

Some research also suggests that moderate caffeine intake may help improve blood circulation and lower the risk of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) when consumed in reasonable amounts.

How Caffeine May Help the Heart

Caffeine can boost brain function and concentration, making it easier to stay alert. Some studies suggest that caffeine may also help blood vessels relax, allowing blood to flow more smoothly. Both tea and coffee contain antioxidants, which may protect blood vessels from damage caused by oxidative stress. When consumed in moderate amounts, caffeine may support overall heart health.

Possible Downsides of Caffeine

Drinking too much caffeine can have negative effects on the body. High doses can increase heart rate, sometimes causing irregular heartbeats or palpitations. People who are sensitive to caffeine may also experience higher blood pressure, which can put extra strain on the heart.

The caffeine content in drinks varies. Coffee contains nearly twice the caffeine of tea, so its effects can be stronger and last longer. Drinking too much coffee in a short time may lead to restlessness, anxiety, or trouble sleeping.

Heart-Friendly Alternatives

For those worried about caffeine’s effect on heart health, there are other options to consider:

• Decaffeinated tea and coffee offer many of the same antioxidants without the stimulating effects.
• Herbal teas, made from plants instead of tea leaves, can promote relaxation and digestion.
• Along with healthy drink choices, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and heart health medications can help regulate blood pressure and support the heart.

Does the Type of Tea or Coffee Matter?

Not all tea and coffee provide the same benefits for heart health. A study in the Netherlands focused on black tea and filtered coffee, which are commonly consumed in that region. These beverages contain special plant compounds, like antioxidants and flavonoids, that may help protect the heart. However, different types of tea, coffee, and brewing methods can change how these drinks affect the body.

How Black Tea and Filtered Coffee Were Studied

The research looked at black tea, which is rich in flavonoids—natural substances that help improve blood vessel function and reduce damage from oxidative stress. Scientists also studied filtered coffee, which removes certain oily compounds called cafestol and kahweol. These compounds can raise cholesterol levels, so filtering them out may make coffee better for heart health.

Do Other Types of Tea and Coffee Have the Same Effect?

While black tea and filtered coffee showed potential heart benefits, other types of tea and coffee may have different effects.

• Green tea contains catechins, another type of antioxidant that may be good for the heart, but this study did not focus on green tea.
• Instant coffee and unfiltered coffee (such as espresso or French press) contain higher amounts of natural oils, which may raise cholesterol levels in some people.

Different types of tea and coffee also have varying levels of caffeine and antioxidants, which means their effects on the heart can be different. People who drink a variety of these beverages may want to pay attention to how their bodies react and choose options that support their heart health goals.

Other Ways to Support Heart Health

Drinking tea and coffee can be part of a heart-healthy lifestyle, but they are not the only factors that influence heart health. A strong heart depends on a combination of:

• Eating nutritious foods that support circulation and reduce cholesterol buildup.
• Staying physically active to keep blood vessels flexible and improve blood flow.
• Using heart health medications, when needed, to help manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Final Thoughts

Tea and coffee have been enjoyed for centuries, not just for their taste but also for their ability to boost energy. In recent years, scientists have studied how these drinks may affect heart health. Research suggests that moderate consumption may help improve blood circulation and lower the risk of Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). 

However, drinking too much can have negative effects, which is why balance is important for long-term heart health.

Why Drinking in Moderation is Important

Studies show that tea and coffee may benefit the heart, but too much caffeine can cause problems. Drinking excessive amounts may increase heart rate, raise blood pressure, and cause restlessness, especially for people sensitive to stimulants. Sticking to 2 to 3 cups of coffee or around 6 cups of tea per day may provide benefits without unwanted side effects. Choosing low-sugar or unsweetened versions can also help prevent extra calories that might impact heart health.

Other Ways to Keep the Heart Healthy

While tea and coffee may support heart function, they are not the only factors that affect heart health. A strong heart depends on a combination of:

• A balanced diet – Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants can help keep blood vessels healthy.
• Regular physical activity – Exercise helps regulate blood pressure and improve circulation.
• Stress management – Relaxation techniques can help lower the strain on the heart.

For people who already have CHD or are at higher risk, additional steps may be necessary. In some cases, doctors may recommend heart health medications to help control cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, or improve blood circulation. These treatments, along with healthy habits, can create a well-rounded heart care plan.

Looking Ahead

Understanding how different choices affect the heart allows people to make informed decisions about their well-being. Whether it’s through diet, exercise, or medical care, every step toward a healthier heart can have long-term benefits. Anyone with concerns about CHD or heart health may want to consult a healthcare provider to explore lifestyle changes and heart health medications that support overall cardiovascular function.