A study that continued for almost 12 years has found that coffee increases the risk of heart disease and pre-diabetes in youngsters having high blood pressure. The findings are based on the assessment of more than 1,200 youngsters.

The researchers said they have found a link between coffee and pre-diabetes and high blood pressure. Lead researcher Dr. Lucio Mos from Hospital of San Daniele del Friuli in Italy said in the past studies as well link has been found between drinking coffee and increased risk of heart disease among youngsters having high blood pressure.

The research was carried out to know whether or not the link was correct. They wanted to know whether or not the risk had any link between high glucose levels and high blood pressure. Study participants were the ones who were regular coffee drinkers and patients of stage 1 hypertension.

Participants were divided into three groups- non-drinkers, moderate drinkers, and heavy drinkers. Heavy drinkers were the ones who had four or more cups of coffee per day on daily basis; moderate drinkers’ consumption was one to three cups per day.

Around one-quarter were non-drinkers, 62.7% were moderate drinkers and 10% were non-drinkers. Participants who have coffee were having a higher BMI than their non-drinking peers. The link between coffee consumption and high blood pressure was significantly higher in those who report at least 4 cups of coffee per day.

High blood pressure patients also face a risk of pre-diabetes. The risk was higher in heavy drinkers than in other two groups.