An ongoing controversy concerns whether black coffee harms or protects heart and blood vessel health. Some studies indicate that too much caffeine could increase risk factors associated with heart attacks and high blood pressure; other research indicates that moderate amounts may actually enhance cardiovascular wellbeing.

Researchers have revealed that those who consume two to three cups of coffee per day tend to experience lower risks of heart disease, abnormal heart rhythms and premature mortality. Women also have lower risks of chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes and certain cancers such as those of the uterus and liver, according to research presented at this year’s British Cardiovascular Society Conference in Glasgow. This data was made public. Based on data gleaned from half a million UK residents who filled out food and beverage diaries, scientists used this research to compare health outcomes over 10 years between those who drank coffee regularly versus those who did not drink coffee at all. Researchers found that those who consumed coffee had a 10%-15% decreased risk of heart problems and diseases, similar to instant, ground, or decaffeinated coffee – and regardless of caffeine content in each form of coffee they consumed. Scientists concluded it didn’t matter whether coffee contained caffeine or not.

Scientists attributed the protective benefits of coffee drinking to its content of vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), and B5 (pantothenic acid). These vitamins help prevent heart disease by balancing cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar. Researchers speculated that another factor contributing to its protective properties may include polyphenols. Polyphenols have been known to reduce oxidative stress levels, boost metabolism, inhibit fat absorption, and block receptors known to cause abnormal heart rhythms.

These studies found that people who consumed two to three cups of coffee per day could reduce their risks of heart failure by 10% to 15%, according to its results. This applied equally to people both with existing heart disease as well as those without it; researchers did caution, however, against consumption by people predisposed to arrhythmias as doing so may increase risk for an episode.

Another key finding from the study was that drinking coffee earlier in the day is better for your heart health. According to researchers, those who started their day by having their first cup before noon were 31 percent less likely to die of heart-related causes than those who waited until after lunch for their daily cup. They think this may be because later-in-the-day consumption may interfere with sleep patterns and hormone levels which in turn increase inflammation and blood pressure levels – all risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

While the results from these studies are encouraging, experts advise drinking coffee in moderation. Individuals with heart disease should consult their doctor prior to beginning any new coffee consumption habit and those suffering from uncontrolled diabetes or sleep disorders should seek medical advice prior to commencing this practice. Furthermore, experts warn against drinking hot beverages at excessively high temperatures since this could damage your esophagus.