Coffee has long been renowned for its ability to enhance alertness, boost mood, and support metabolism. However, when consumed incorrectly, especially when loaded with sugar, cream, or milk, these inherent health benefits can be entirely negated.
Drinking black coffee without sugar or cream can increase longevity
A team of scientists at Tufts University in the United States conducted a study on 46,332 adults aged 20 and over, with a follow-up period ranging from 9 to 11 years. During this time, 7,074 deaths were recorded.
Upon analyzing the data, the scientists found that coffee drinkers, especially those who favored black coffee or coffee with minimal sweeteners and fats, had a lower risk of mortality compared to non-coffee drinkers.
Dr. Bingjie Zhou, an epidemiologist and lead author of the study, emphasized: “If you add too much sugar or cream, you’re negating the natural benefits that coffee provides.”
Statistically, those who drank 2 to 3 cups of black coffee per day had a 14% lower risk of early death compared to non-drinkers. However, the group who regularly added large amounts of sugar, cream, or milk to their coffee did not exhibit similar benefits and could even experience negative impacts with excessive consumption.
Notably, the health benefits were absent in the group consuming decaffeinated coffee, suggesting that caffeine and antioxidants in black coffee are the key contributors to longevity.
Timing Your Coffee Consumption for Optimal Health
While coffee is beneficial to health when consumed black and with limited sweeteners, it’s essential to pay attention to the timing of your coffee intake.
Avoid drinking coffee immediately after waking up: Many people have a habit of drinking coffee as soon as they wake up in the morning to “wake up their body.” However, endocrine and nutrition experts advise against this practice for health reasons.
In the early morning, the hormone cortisol, which regulates energy and stress response, tends to peak. Drinking coffee during this time can cause a sudden spike in cortisol levels, leading to anxiety, increased heart rate, acne, or hormonal imbalances.
Additionally, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can damage the stomach lining and negatively affect blood sugar levels, resulting in fatigue and a lack of focus throughout the morning.
Avoid drinking coffee after 12 noon: Another common mistake is drinking coffee too late in the day. According to Dr. Poonam Desai from the United States, caffeine has a half-life of 5 to 6 hours. So, if you drink coffee at 2 p.m., you’ll still have caffeine in your system well into the evening, potentially disrupting your sleep.
A 2015 study published in Science Translational Medicine found that consuming coffee within three hours of bedtime can shift your body clock by almost 40 minutes. This disrupts sleep patterns, causing fatigue and negatively impacting cardiovascular health, the immune system, and blood pressure.
The Golden Time to Drink Coffee: Experts recommend drinking coffee between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. when cortisol levels have decreased, allowing the body to absorb caffeine effectively without stressing the nervous system.
It’s best to drink coffee after breakfast, ensuring your stomach isn’t empty. This practice protects your stomach lining and stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing sudden fatigue throughout the day.
- Opt for black coffee or coffee with minimal sugar and milk.
- Drink coffee after breakfast, preferably between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
- Avoid drinking coffee immediately after waking up or after 12 noon.
- Minimize the use of cream, sugar, and fatty milk in your coffee.
Coffee is not just a morning beverage; it’s a health ally when consumed correctly. Enjoy your cup of coffee, knowing it’s a positive energy source rather than a silent health detriment!
The World’s Healthiest Foods: Unbelievably Nutritious and Affordable at Your Local Vietnamese Market.
Did you know that this superfood, hailed by nutritionists as one of the healthiest in the world, can be easily found in Vietnamese markets at extremely affordable prices?
The Ultimate Guide to Longevity: 6 Superfoods for a Longer, Healthier Life
Are you seeking a longer, healthier, and more energetic life? The secret to achieving this lies in your diet! Uncover the 6 ‘golden’ foods, scientifically proven to enhance longevity and promote optimal health.
6 Types of Nutritious Fish That May Contain High Levels of Mercury: Especially the First Type, a Favorite for Many
“The following types of fish are high in mercury, which can be detrimental to your health when consumed in large quantities. It is best to avoid these fish and opt for safer alternatives.”
Who is Healthier: Those with Longer or Shorter Menstrual Cycles?
Introducing the ultimate guide to unlocking the secrets of success. Discover the strategies that will transform your life and propel you towards achieving your wildest dreams. Uncover the techniques utilized by the most successful individuals and learn how to harness their power to carve your path to greatness. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-improvement and unlock your true potential.
3 Times You Should Avoid Drinking Orange Juice
“Orange juice is often hailed as a healthy beverage, but there’s a catch. If consumed at the wrong time, this seemingly beneficial drink can turn from a vibrant orange to a harmful black. Yes, timing is everything when it comes to reaping the benefits of this citrusy delight.”
