Overview
- The multicenter DECAF trial enrolled 200 adults in the United States, Canada and Australia after cardioversion for persistent atrial fibrillation, assigning at least one cup of caffeinated coffee daily or complete caffeine abstinence for six months.
- Recurrence occurred in 47% of the coffee group versus 64% with abstinence, a 39% relative reduction, with a longer time to first recurrent episode among coffee drinkers.
- Investigators reported no significant differences in adverse events between the coffee and abstinence groups during follow-up.
- The findings apply to caffeinated coffee consumed in typical amounts and should not be extrapolated to decaffeinated coffee, tea, high‑dose synthetic caffeine or energy drinks.
- Experts note the result is consistent with prior observational analyses showing modest risk reductions per cup and advise moderation and individualized medical guidance, with existing recommendations citing up to roughly 400 mg of caffeine daily for healthy adults.