A Daily Cup of Coffee: Could It Really Help Prevent Recurrent AFib?
- Eric Han
- Nov 15, 2025
- 4 min read
For years, many people who have been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib) were told to avoid caffeine. But a new study is challenging that conventional wisdom — and offering a surprising glimmer of hope for those living with this common heart rhythm disorder.
What the Study Found
A randomized clinical trial titled the DECAF Trial (Does Eliminating Coffee Avoid Fibrillation) enrolled about 200 adults with persistent AFib or atrial flutter. They were undergoing cardioversion (a procedure to restore normal heart rhythm) and split into two groups: one asked to drink at least one cup of caffeinated coffee daily, the other asked to avoid caffeine altogether for six months.
The results were clear: the coffee-drinkers had a 39% lower risk of AFib or atrial flutter recurrence (hazard ratio ~0.61) compared to the caffeine‐abstainers.
In concrete numbers: ~47% of the coffee group had a recurrence during the 6-month period, compared to ~64% in the no-caffeine group.
Why This Matters
AFib is one of the most common arrhythmias, affecting millions of adults globally and increasing risks of stroke, heart failure and other cardiovascular complications.
Because many doctors have historically advised patients to avoid caffeine, this trial challenges that guidance — showing that moderate coffee consumption may not only be safe for many AFib patients, but possibly beneficial.
For patients and clinicians alike, this opens up conversations about lifestyle habits, rather than simply eliminating caffeine by default.
What Might Be Going On?
The researchers propose several mechanisms by which coffee might help reduce AFib recurrence:
Caffeine’s effect on adenosine receptors: Adenosine is a chemical that can promote atrial triggers for AF-rhythms; caffeine blocks some of those effects, which might lengthen the atrial “refractoriness” and stabilise rhythm.
Anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee: Inflammation is known to promote AFib; coffee contains polyphenols and other substances that may reduce inflammation.
Increased physical activity: Some data in the trial suggested coffee drinkers took more steps/day; more movement is beneficial for heart rhythm health.
Lower blood pressure/diuretic effect: Coffee has mild diuretic properties and may help lower blood pressure over time or offset fluid overload, which can trigger AFib.
Important Caveats & What This Doesn’t Mean
While the results are promising, several important caveats apply:
The study involved patients who already drank coffee regularly before enrolling. It’s unclear if patients who never drank coffee would get the same benefit.
The dosage was moderate: at least one cup daily. The effects of higher doses of caffeine or other caffeinated beverages (like energy drinks) remain unknown.
The trial lasted 6 months. Long-term effects (years) are not yet established.
Individual responses vary: some people with AFib do find caffeine triggers their episodes. The study does not mean “drink more coffee” without consulting your physician.
Coffee is not a substitute for standard AFib therapies (medication, ablation, lifestyle modifications) — it may be an adjunct component.
How to Think About This in Practice
If you or someone you know has AFib, and you’ve been avoiding coffee entirely out of fear, the new evidence suggests it may be reasonable to reconsider moderate consumption — under guidance of your cardiologist or electrophysiologist. Some practical steps:
Discuss your coffee and caffeine habits with your cardiologist: how many cups/day, what type (espresso vs drip), other stimulants you use.
If you currently have AFib and abstain from caffeine, don’t rush into heavy coffee-consumption. A gradual introduction (e.g., one small cup once/day) might be reasonable.
Monitor your symptoms closely: if you notice palpitations, increased AF episodes, dizziness or worse quality of life after caffeine, then you may remain in the “avoid” category.
Remember that managing AFib involves multiple lifestyle levers: controlling blood pressure, treating sleep apnea, limiting alcohol, maintaining healthy weight, managing thyroid function, etc. Coffee is just one piece of the puzzle.
Use the taking-coffee decision as part of your broader rhythm-care plan. If everyone in your case is stable and comfortable with coffee, this might be reassuring. If you’re newly diagnosed/unstable, you may still prefer minimal caffeine until rhythm control is firmer.
Take-Home Message
This landmark DECAF trial suggests that drinking one cup of caffeinated coffee daily was associated with a ~39% lower risk of AFib or atrial flutter recurrence in a select group of patients. It overturns long-held advice to blanket-avoid caffeine in AFib.
Nevertheless, this is not a green light for unlimited coffee or a substitute for proper heart-rhythm management. But for those who enjoy coffee and have been avoiding it purely out of concern for AFib, this study offers reassurance and a new avenue for discussion with their healthcare provider.
Woodside Internal Medicine
Want personalized guidance for AFib, heart health, or lifestyle changes like caffeine intake? Our concierge practice offers extended appointments, same-week access, and individualized care for patients across Carmel, Zionsville, Westfield, and Greater Indianapolis.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals with atrial fibrillation or heart conditions should consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to caffeine or dietary intake.
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