What You Need to Know About Stroke and Coffee Consumption: Is There a Risk?

Coffee is an enjoyable drink, a pick me up for many, and the most widely consumed beverage in the world. The thought of giving it up is horrifying to many coffee lovers.

Do you have well meaning friends who have told you to cut back? You're probably wondering if you should... 

For years there has been a back and forth discussion about coffee and whether or not it is good for your health, particularly heart health. In this article, we are addressing whether or not this delicious morning drink increases stroke risk. 

Fantastic news: recent studies have debunked fears! Coffee is associated with a decreased risk of stroke. Two to four cups or more a day have a preventative effect on stroke. 

How Does Coffee Prevent a Stroke? 

1. Among its many benefits, coffee changes blood vessel physiology and alters blood flow, which leads to lowered blood pressure.  "Specifically, participants who drank a cup of caffeinated coffee had a 30 percent increase in blood flow over a 75-minute period compared to those who drank decaffeinated coffee." See more in this article: "Does Coffee Raise Your Blood Pressure?" 
2. The chlorogenic acids in coffee have a direct affect on human physiology, including the heart. They reduce blood pressure, inhibit the oxidation of LDL particles, lower the risk and the progression of atherosclerosis, ward off heart failure, prevent heart attacks and keep metabolic health in check. For more on this you can read, "Heart Health Benefits of Chlorogenic Acids". 
3. Cardiology Coffee, since it is organic and mold and pesticide free, will likely improve your lipids. Coffee may raise both LDL and HDL, preserving a healthy ratio, so drinking your morning cups is a win win. If you are worried about your cholesterol,  simply use a filter when you brew. For more information on cholesterol on coffee see ,"Is Coffee Good or Bad for Cholesterol Levels?". 
4. Coffee can decrease harmful blood clots. Coffee intake is associated with a lower risk of venous thrombosis. 
5. Antioxidants for compounds such as chlorogenic acid and others reduce stroke risk. These compounds suppress inflammation and fight free radicals and oxidative stress. Free radicals are linked to the development of atherosclerosis. The human body needs these on a daily basis and one way to take advantage of the benefits is by enjoying Cardiology Coffee. 

Bottom line, if your body likes coffee, bottoms up!