ABSTRACT

Background and Objective:
Caffeine is the most widely consumed stimulant in the world with 80% of it consumed in the form of coffee. It is used as an ingredient in pharmaceuticals, owing to the high content of nutrients and antioxidants, including phenols and polyphenols, that have cardioprotective properties. This study aimed to investigate and compare the effects of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee on blood pressure and heart rate.

Materials and Methods:
In this study, experimental days were divided over 2 weeks: February 21 to March 6. Each week, the participants were provided with a specific type of coffee to drink. They were advised to avoid exercise and vigorous physical activity and to get enough sleep. Blood pressure and heart rate were measured in resting/sitting position from the left arm using a blood pressure device, OMRON Model BP5100. The participants were clear of any cardiovascular diseases or hypertension. Any participants, who suffered from hypertension or hypotension were excluded.

Results:
We compared the impact of coffee with caffeine and without caffeine on systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate. No difference in heart rates or blood pressure was observed in participants after 30-90 min of drinking either caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee.

Conclusion:
Based on the tests performed on 40 participants, we conclude that there are no significant differences in the influence of either type of coffee on blood pressure or heart rate.