Study finds reduced risk of heart failure with coffee consumption

New research from the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found a possible benefit with drinking coffee moderately and reducing heart failure. Previously, an association between the two has been unknown, and the American Heart Association has gone as far as to say it could cause more harm than good. But this recent study shows those who drink moderate amounts of coffee have an 11 percent decreased risk of developing heart failure.

The researchers came to this conclusion after studying the data of 140,220 participants from five different studies. After analyzing everything, they found a significant association between drinking about two cups a day and reduced heart failure.

"Our results did show a possible benefit, but like with so many other things we consume, it really depends on how much coffee you drink," said lead author Elizabeth Mostofsky, a post-doctoral fellow in the cardiovascular epidemiological unit at BIDMC. "And compared with no consumption, the strongest protection we observed was at about four European, or two eight-ounce American, servings of coffee per day."

According to Medline Plus, heart failure occurs when a person's heart cannot pump enough blood to satisfy the entire body. Approximately 5 million people in the U.S. have heart failure and it contributes to about 300,000 deaths each year. Those who are reaching retirement age should ensure they are getting enough exercise and eating the right foods to attempt to keep the condition at bay.

Seniors should also prepare for an unexpected medical condition financially. Setting up a Medicare supplement insurance plan can give a senior some peace of mind that their family is protected financially.