Caffeinated drinks ‘can cause heart damage’

High concentrations of caffeine, such as those found in espresso shots, can cause damage to the heart, it has been discovered.

A study undertaken by researchers at the University of Palermo in Italy found that within an hour of a single espresso, the blood flow of the adult volunteers involved had reduced by an average of 22 per cent.

However, when they drank decaffeinated versions of the same beverage, there was little or no change to their systems, it was discovered.

Additionally, blood pressure was found to rise significantly after consumption of a normal espresso, but again, this effect was not witnessed with the decaffeinated drink.

The authors of the report stated: “The effects we observed may be even more relevant in subjects who are genetically slow caffeine metabolisers.”

This news comes after a study conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund last year pointed towards the detrimental effects of drinking iced coffee.

It found one drink which contained 561 calories – over a quarter of the 2,000-calorie intake recommended for women.