Timing your coffee: Morning boost or sleep disruptor?
Coffee, although commonly consumed to improve concentration and energy, can also significantly impact sleep quality and longevity. The timing of consumption is crucial, as drinking a cup too late can disrupt your circadian rhythm and negatively affect your body's recovery. Choosing the right time to drink coffee can support health, improve sleep quality, and contribute to longevity.
Sleep Foundation researchers emphasize the importance of timing when it comes to your last coffee for sleep quality. They advise that people with sleep problems should avoid caffeine after 12 PM. Even those without sleep issues should refrain from drinking coffee after 4-5 PM.
The role of caffeine in sleep problems
Caffeine, found in coffee, can make it difficult to fall asleep and worsen sleep quality. It's crucial to control caffeine consumption, especially in the afternoon. People who have trouble sleeping should be particularly cautious in this regard.
Healthy sleep involves more than just avoiding caffeine and maintaining a proper diet. It's also important to ensure regular sleep patterns and avoid stress before bedtime. Experts from Sleep Foundation emphasize that these habits can significantly enhance the quality of rest.
Coffee and heart health
The latest research published in the "European Heart Journal" suggests that drinking coffee in the morning can have positive effects on heart health and longevity. An analysis of data from 40,725 adult participants showed that those who drank coffee only in the morning had a 16% lower risk of premature death and a 31% lower risk of dying from heart disease.
This study, which spanned nearly 10 years, included participants reporting their dietary habits, including coffee consumption. The findings revealed that those who drank coffee throughout the day did not have a reduced risk of death. Dr. Lu Qi, the lead author, notes that this is the first study to analyze the impact of the timing of coffee consumption on health.
Experts indicate that coffee can affect the circadian rhythm and melatonin levels, which influences blood pressure and oxidative stress. Consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening can disrupt the sleep cycle, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The benefits of morning coffee
Morning coffee can support the body's regenerative mechanisms without disrupting the repair processes that occur at night. It can also stimulate metabolism and aid digestive processes, helping in better weight management and reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome.
Although the study's results are not definitive, it's worth considering changing your habits and consulting a doctor about caffeine consumption. The study highlights the importance of not only the quantity but also the timing of coffee consumption for health.
