A new medical study is changing how doctors view coffee for people with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a common heart rhythm problem. For years, patients were told to limit or completely avoid caffeine, but new evidence suggests that moderate coffee drinking might actually help the heart.
Coffee Linked to Lower AFib Recurrence
The research, unveiled at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025, analyzed data from more than 200 AFib patients who had undergone a procedure known as catheter ablation – a treatment used to correct irregular heartbeats. Results showed that individuals who regularly consumed at least one cup of coffee per day had a 40% lower chance of their AFib returning compared to those who avoided coffee altogether.
Interestingly, the most benefit appeared among those who drank two to three cups daily, suggesting that moderate intake could play a role in maintaining normal heart rhythm.
Decaf Coffee Also Offers Some Protection
Surprisingly, the benefits weren’t limited to caffeine. Patients who preferred decaffeinated coffee also saw a reduced risk of AFib recurrence, though the effect was smaller than that of caffeinated coffee. This points to the idea that natural compounds found in coffee, such as antioxidants and polyphenols, might also protect the heart.
Why Coffee Helps the Heart
Scientists believe coffee’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties play a major role. These compounds may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which can disrupt the heart’s electrical activity. Coffee might also help balance the gut microbiome, which research increasingly shows has a strong connection to cardiovascular health.
Lead author from the University of Colorado noted that the findings overturn decades of caution against caffeine for AFib patients. “Our results suggest that, for most individuals, moderate coffee consumption is not harmful – it may actually be protective,” he said.
What It Means for Heart Patients
These findings could reshape dietary recommendations for millions living with AFib. While individual tolerance to caffeine still varies, the study makes it clear that blanket restrictions on coffee are outdated. Instead, a few cups a day may support better heart rhythm stability when combined with a balanced lifestyle.
Experts caution, however, that patients should still consult their doctors before making major dietary changes, especially if they have multiple heart conditions or take medications affected by caffeine.
This groundbreaking research adds to a growing body of evidence showing that coffee – long regarded as a guilty pleasure – might, in moderation, be one of the heart’s best allies.
