The article discusses the relationship between coffee consumption and blood pressure, as well as its potential impact on heart health. Here are the main points: **May Increase Blood Pressure Temporarily** * Drinking 1-2 cups of coffee can increase blood pressure by 8 mm Hg and 6 mm Hg in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, respectively. * This effect is observed for up to three hours after consumption and is similar in people with normal blood pressure at baseline and those with pre-existing high blood pressure. **Potential Long-Term Effects** * Regular coffee consumption does not appear to have a significant impact on blood pressure or the risk of heart disease. * For people with high blood pressure, daily coffee consumption is unlikely to have a significant effect. **Health Benefits** * Drinking 3-5 cups of coffee per day is linked to a 15% reduction in heart disease risk and a lower risk of premature death. * Coffee contains multiple bioactive compounds that are known to have strong antioxidant effects and may reduce oxidative stress in the body. * Some researchers believe that coffee's health benefits may outweigh any potential negative effects on those who drink it regularly. **Should You Avoid Coffee If You Have High Blood Pressure?** * For most people, moderate coffee consumption is unlikely to have a significant effect on blood pressure or heart disease risk. * Excessive exposure to caffeine can be ill-advised for people with high blood pressure. * A balanced diet and regular physical activity are still the best ways to promote healthy blood pressure and heart health. **The Bottom Line** * Coffee may lead to short-term increases in blood pressure, but no long-term associations have been found between coffee consumption and increased risk of heart disease. * Drinking coffee in moderation is likely a safe habit for most people. * The antioxidant content of coffee may even promote heart health.