Overview
- In the DECAF trial published in JAMA, habitual coffee drinkers assigned to about one cup of caffeinated coffee daily had fewer atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter recurrences over six months than those told to avoid caffeine.
- Recurrence occurred in 47% of the coffee group versus 64% of the abstinence group, reflecting a 39% relative reduction in events lasting more than 30 seconds.
- The study enrolled 200 regular coffee drinkers with persistent AFib or atrial flutter after successful cardioversion at hospitals in the United States, Canada, and Australia.
- Researchers emphasized limitations, including a modest sample size, imperfect adherence in the avoidance arm (69% fully abstained), and the focus on moderate intake rather than heavy consumption or energy drinks.
- Experts note potential but unproven mechanisms—such as adenosine blockade, anti‑inflammatory compounds in coffee, or increased physical activity—and advise individualized medical guidance before changing habits.