I think it’s safe to conclude that enough reliable evidence exists that can put to rest claim that coffee/caffeine contributes to high blood pressure and even CVD.

What’s Better Alternative than Retiring Your Coffee Mug? As a certified fitness trainer, I’ve learned that one of most effective ways to counteract high blood pressure and onset of CVD is to be physically active, NOT – as studies above prove - eliminate caffeine consumption. In fact, as my caffeine and fitness article explains, caffeine can even help you become more fit.

An American Heart Association study, as referenced by several peer-reviewed scientific and medical publications, has recently claimed that people who are physically active have a lower risk of getting high blood pressure -- 20%-50% lower -- than people who are not active.

Besides losing weight, there are other reasons to exercise: Being physically active can reduce your risk for heart disease, help lower your total cholesterol level and raise HDL-cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol that does not build up in arteries), and help lower high blood pressure. And, again, people who are physically active have a lower risk of getting high blood pressure -- 20 to 50 percent lower -- than people who are not active.

More vigorous exercise has added benefits. It helps improve fitness of heart and lungs. And that in turn protects you more against heart disease and high blood pressure. Activities like swimming, brisk walking, running, and jumping rope are called "aerobic." This means that body uses oxygen to make energy it needs for activity. Aerobic activities can condition your heart and lungs if done at right intensity for 30 minutes, three to four times a week. But if you don't have 30 minutes for a break, try to find two 15-minute periods or even three 10-minute periods. Try to do some type of aerobic activity in course of a week. And, since stress is also a major CAUSE of high blood pressure, exercise can even help lower stress levels as well.

Most people don't need to see a doctor before they start exercising, since a gradual, sensible exercise program has few health risks. But if you have a health problem like high blood pressure; if you have pains or pressure in chest or shoulder area; if you tend to feel dizzy or faint; if you get very breathless after a mild workout; or are middle-age or older and have not been active, and you are planning a vigorous exercise program, you should check with your doctor first. Otherwise, drink your coffee, get out, get active, and get fit -- and help prevent high blood pressure and CVD.

Conclusion Coffee consumption does not contribute to high blood pressure and CVD. Retiring your coffee mug is not going to help you reduce your risks. Exercising, however, will. So, go ahead and drink your coffee – especially before your next workout!