1. Caffeine is a stimulant - Caffeine is believed to result in an increase in blood pressure, even though it is a mild stimulant. For some, this does not pose any health threats but for others who already have high blood pressure, it may spell disaster. Studies have not yet made clear what role caffeine plays in raising blood pressure levels. Some studies show that those who have regular caffeine intake have higher blood pressure levels. Other studies show that those who have a regular caffeine intake develop a tolerance for caffeine. However, these studies are in agreement with the fact that sugar, cream and other food have a mitigating effect on caffeine.

2. Caffeine sharply increase blood pressure levels - Some studies confirm that caffeine affects blood pressure almost immediately. Studies show that sharp rises in blood pressure after taking in caffeine, although this increase is only temporary. Caffeine's long term effect on blood pressure is yet to be discovered. The sharp rise of blood pressure immediately after taking caffeine is attributed to caffeine's mitigating effect on adenosine's ability to widen the artery. As a result, blood vessels are constricted and this leads to higher blood pressure. It is also believed that caffeine releases cortisol and adrenaline, which in turn results to a rise in blood pressure levels.

3. Caffeine can increase the risk for Artherosclerosis - Artherosclerosis (or the hardening of the arteries) has been linked to the intake of caffeine by those with high blood pressure. A study conducted in 2002 by the American Society of Hypertension has confirmed this link. People who have high blood pressure and who regularly take caffeine are more susceptible to Artherosclerosis. What is to be noted is that the study also stated that at this point, having definitive conclusions about the matter is still premature.

4. Caffeine can cause heart problems - Chronic heart problems are partially attributed to high blood pressure. As such, caffeine can contribute to heart problems as it helps increase blood pressure levels. Drinking more than four cups of coffee increases one's probabilities to develop heart problems.

Although caffeine is recognized for its ability to increase blood pressure levels, close to 80% of the people worldwide still take it in some form or another. Caffeine is found in many foods, particularly common drinks such as coffee, tea, chocolate drinks and soft drinks. Here is a list of some foods that contain caffeine and the amount it contains.

*plain black tea (around 70 mg), *8-ounces of brewed coffee (135 mg), *Pepsi 12-ounces can (37.5 mg), *a bar of chocolate, 1.45 ounces (27 mg), *pain relievers (60 mg), *one bottle of Red Bull (80 mg), *Midol (usually taken for menstruation pains) (60 mg).

Doctors have advised even those not suffering from high blood pressure to limit their caffeine intake to about two 12-ounce cups of coffee. But you should also watch out for other beverages that contain caffeine like tea or soft drinks as they can increase the amount of caffeine taken on a daily basis.

If you already have high blood pressure, it is best to minimize further increases by minimizing, if not avoiding, caffeine intake. That way, you are able to help keep your blood pressure at a safe level.