Coffee is a beloved beverage for many, providing a much-needed energy boost. However, excessive or improper consumption can have negative effects on your health. There are two critical timings to avoid when it comes to drinking coffee:
Drinking coffee immediately after waking up: It’s common to reach for a cup of coffee first thing in the morning to wake up. While the aroma and taste can be enticing, drinking coffee on an empty stomach can be detrimental. After a night’s sleep, your body is essentially in a fasted state, and consuming coffee can trigger the release of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can have negative effects on your body, including increased nervous system inhibition, skin issues like acne, and a potential worsening of your mood. Additionally, drinking coffee, especially with added sugar and milk, on an empty stomach can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar, resulting in blood sugar crashes later in the day, causing fatigue and exhaustion.

Drinking coffee too close to bedtime: For those who struggle with sleep, consuming coffee in the afternoon or close to evening can make it even more difficult to fall asleep. Caffeine has a half-life of about 6 hours, so drinking coffee after lunch or closer to bedtime can disrupt your sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue and a host of other issues, making it harder for your body to recover, accelerating aging, and increasing the risk of heart-related issues. A 2015 study published in Science Translational Medicine found that drinking coffee within 3 hours of bedtime could keep you awake for an extra hour, disrupting your body’s natural circadian rhythm.

How to drink coffee for optimal health benefits: Experts recommend drinking coffee at least 90 minutes after waking up and after having breakfast. The ideal time to drink coffee is between 9:30 am and 11:30 am when your body’s cortisol levels start to decline. When purchasing coffee, opt for pure coffee to avoid potential chemical risks from adulteration. To make your coffee habit healthier, minimize the use of refined sugar and fatty milk, especially if you have obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular issues. If you need sweetness, consider using natural sweeteners like stevia.