A new randomized trial challenges long-standing advice that patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) should avoid caffeine. The DECAF trial, presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2026, found that moderate daily coffee consumption did not increase the risk of recurrent AFib and was actually associated with fewer clinically detected recurrences.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Bologna, enrolled 200 patients with symptomatic AFib who consumed at least one cup of coffee per day. Half were randomized to continue drinking coffee, while the other half were advised to abstain. After six months, the coffee group had a significantly lower rate of AFib recurrence (19.6%) compared to the abstention group (28.5%).
Lead author Dr. Giuseppe Boriani stated, "Our findings suggest that a blanket ban on coffee is not justified for most AFib patients. Moderate consumption appears safe and may even be beneficial." The researchers noted that the mechanism is unclear but may involve caffeine's effects on adenosine receptors or improved autonomic tone.
These results contradict earlier observational studies that linked caffeine to arrhythmias. However, experts caution that individual responses vary, and patients should consult their doctors before changing their coffee habits. The trial was funded by the Italian Ministry of Health.
