Dietary fiber and caffeine consumption linked to heart health

New research highlights the impact of diet and caffeine on cardiovascular health. An analysis of over 220,000 adults by Uppsala University scientists, published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that increased fiber intake may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, particularly for night shift workers. Because night shifts can disrupt circadian rhythms and increase cardiovascular stress, fiber consumption appears to offer protective benefits. For regular night shift workers, approximately 19 grams of daily fiber was associated with reduced risks, while occasional night shift workers saw benefits at around 15 grams.

Separately, the American Heart Association states that consuming up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day—roughly 3 to 5 cups of coffee—is generally safe for most adults and may even be linked to positive cardiovascular outcomes. However, experts warn that excessive caffeine from energy drinks or concentrated supplements can lead to heart palpitations, increased blood pressure, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Individual responses to caffeine vary, and high doses can increase the risk of heart rhythm issues.