A study has found that caffeine intake can benefit on heart health through its ability to promote the regeneration of blood vessels.
Throughout the study period, the caffeine intake of participants with lupus were recorded to assess if the presence of the ingredient in the diet had any impact on the prevalence of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs).
Endothelial progenitor cells are involved in the regeneration of the blood vessels, and are a key contributor to vascular health — therefore impacting the cardiovascular system too.
From the study, it was found that there was a positive correlation between the intake of caffeine and the percentage of EPCs circulating in the blood of participants.
In vitro changes
As well as observing the impact of caffeine in study participants, an in vitro offshoot of the trial revealed that caffeine exposure could promote the survival and vitality of EPCs.
Researchers believe this is through the inhibition of apoptosis — a type of programmed cell death.
The caffeine-influenced EPCs were also better able to form colonies, which can lead to the improved regeneration of blood vessels.
Supporting cardiovascular health with caffeine
This study was conducted in patients with lupus, though these patients did not have an elevated cardiovascular risk, according to the researchers at the Sapienza University of Rome.
Therefore, this study highlights the potential of caffeine intake as an easy dietary intervention for those with systemic lupus.