Cardiovascular effects of caffeine ingestion during physical exercise: A systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33448/rsd-v15i1.50547Keywords:
Caffeine, Cardiovascular system, Exercise, Heart rate.Abstract
Caffeine supplementation is widely used by individuals engaged in physical exercise due to its ergogenic properties, although its cardiovascular effects remain a topic of debate. This systematic review aimed to analyze the influence of caffeine intake on cardiovascular parameters in healthy physically active individuals. The search was conducted in PubMed, SciELO, and complemented by the Consensus platform, including original experimental studies published between 2020 and 2025. Ten studies met the eligibility criteria, assessing variables such as heart rate, blood pressure, and heart rate variability. Caffeine doses ranged from 3 to 9 mg/kg and were administered orally prior to exercise. The findings indicate mild and transient increases in heart rate and systolic blood pressure, without clinical risk in healthy adults. Additionally, caffeine modulates autonomic control, with sympathetic predominance during exercise and more efficient parasympathetic recovery in the post-exercise period. It is concluded that moderate caffeine intake presents a safe cardiovascular profile and may be used as an effective ergogenic strategy, provided that individual variability and consumption recommendations are respected.
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