Dr. Hafiza Khan, a UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) and Harvard-trained cardiologist, has urged individuals to reconsider their daily routines regarding coffee, energy drinks, and Diet Coke.
In a May 2022 Instagram post, Dr. Khan stated unequivocally that water is essential for heart health. However, she adds that there is room for moderation when it comes to caffeine, whether it be in tea or coffee. “Up to 400 mg /day of caffeine in the form of coffee or tea is fine even if you have Afib,” Dr. Khan mentioned in the caption.
However, she warned that not everyone reacts in the same manner. Caffeine may increase heart rate or trigger additional beats in sensitive persons, which are known medically as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) or premature atrial contractions (PACs).
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What about soda and Diet Coke?
Dr. Khan distinguishes between soda and energy drinks, pointing out that soda, even diet soda, is not particularly healthy. She claimed that these are “definitely not good.” Regular soft drinks have been connected to diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Both diet and sugary soft drinks are associated with increased risks, according to a study by the US National Centre for Biotechnology Information; regular soda is particularly associated with coronary heart disease.
Addressing the consumption of Diet Coke, Dr. Khan acknowledged that she consumes one can daily, but she does not believe that this should be interpreted as permission for everyone. It involves striking a balance between danger, habit, and desire.
A Diet Coke once in a while may be acceptable for many people, but cutting back may be the best course of action for others, particularly those who are caffeine sensitive or have heart or metabolic problems.
“But for most people coffee and tea is fine. However, caffeine in the form of a soda. Probably not the greatest idea. But I love my Diet Coca Cola and I drink 1 can /day,” Dr. Khan added.
Conversely, tea and coffee are generally acceptable as long as you watch how your body responds and keep your intake below the threshold. Although there are dangers involved, they appear to be significantly less than those associated with sugary, caffeinated beverages and energy drinks.
