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Craving for your daily caffeine fix? Well, if you have high blood pressure, think again before you help yourself to a cup of freshly brewed coffee. This article gives you four reasons why caffeine and high blood pressure simply won't mix: 1. It is a stimulant - While considered a mild stimulant, caffeine can increase blood pressure and this can be bad news for those already suffering from the condition. Scientific studies have not yet clarified how caffeine ended up as one of the high blood pressure causes - there are conflicting studies on this matter. Some studies show a higher blood pressure level for those who regularly take caffeine while others show the development of tolerance among those who regularly take a caffeine fix. There is however a consensus on the diluting effect of taking caffeine (in coffee) with sugar, cream and other food. 2. Caffeine can raise blood pressure levels quickly - Studies show an immediate rise in blood pressure following caffeine intake. This effect is temporary, especially among those who do not have an intake of caffeine regularly. Doctors believe that this rise in blood pressure levels is linked to caffeine's ability to block the hormone adenosine from widening the artery. Constricted arteries result in a rise in blood pressure levels. Another theory is that caffeine releases cortisol and adrenaline, which can also increase blood pressure. It is important to note that studies have yet to discover the long term effect of caffeine on one's blood pressure levels. 3. Caffeine can increase the risk for Artherosclerosis - Artherosclerosis (or the hardening of the arteries) has been linked to the intake of caffeine by those with high blood pressure. A study conducted in 2002 by the American Society of Hypertension has confirmed this link. People who have high blood pressure and who regularly take caffeine are more susceptible to Artherosclerosis. What is to be noted is that the study also stated that at this point, having definitive conclusions about the matter is still premature. 4. It can cause heart problems - The danger of high blood pressure is related to the fact that it is associated with chronic heart problems. Caffeine compounds this because drinking more than four cups of coffee can increase the chance of developing heart problems. Although caffeine is recognized for its ability to increase blood pressure levels, close to 80% of the people worldwide still take it in some form or another. Caffeine is found in many foods, particularly common drinks such as coffee, tea, chocolate drinks and soft drinks. Here is a list of some foods that contain caffeine and the amount it contains. * 8-ounce brewed coffee -135 mg, * plain black tea-up to 70 mg, * 12-ounce Pepsi - 37.5 mg, * a bottle of Red Bull - 80 mg, * 1.45 ounce chocolate bar - 27 mg, * Midol (for menstruation pains) 60 mg, * pain relievers - 60mg. Doctors have advised even those not suffering from high blood pressure to limit their caffeine intake to about two 12-ounce cups of coffee. But you should also watch out for other beverages that contain caffeine like tea or soft drinks as they can increase the amount of caffeine taken on a daily basis. If you already have high blood pressure, it is best to minimize further increases by minimizing, if not avoiding, caffeine intake. That way, you are able to help keep your blood pressure at a safe level.
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