A recent study has revealed that some of our most beloved hot beverages could have an unexpected effect on our health.

Researchers from Sapienza University in Rome, Italy, suggest they may have discovered a link between the consumption of high-caffeine drinks such as coffee, tea and hot chocolate, and a decrease in the risk of heart disease.

The study involved monitoring a group of 31 individuals with Lupus over a week. The findings indicated that those who consumed caffeine more frequently had lower blood pressure, which is known to help reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease, according to Gloucestershire Live.

As per NHS guidelines, Lupus is “a long-term condition causing joint pain, skin rashes, and fatigue. While there’s no cure, early treatment can improve symptoms,” reports Surrey Live.

Although some Lupus sufferers also experience heart-related diseases, none of the participants in this study had any heart or vascular issues.

The researchers stated that caffeine acts as an anti-inflammatory “because it binds with the receptors expressed on the surface of immune cells”, a factor strongly associated with positive heart health effects.

Fulvia Ceccarelli, one of the investigators, concluded that additional evidence might be needed to validate their findings: “The present study aims to provide patients with information about the possible role of diet in disease control.”

The researcher stated, “It will be necessary to confirm the results through a longitudinal study aimed at evaluating the real impact of coffee consumption on disease progression.”

In a recent statement, Stephen Devries, MD, a preventive cardiologist and executive director of Gaples Institute in Chicago, echoed the positive sentiments about the beverages: “Both coffee and tea are linked to a host of health benefits, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, lower risk of type 2 diabetes and improved longevity.”

“Most of the benefits are noted with intake in the range of twofive cups per day,” Dr. Devries added.