Morning or all-day? When is the best time to drink coffee?

For most of us, the day doesn’t officially start until we’ve had that first sip of coffee. But what if we tell you that your beloved morning brew isn’t just waking you up—it might actually be keeping your heart happy too?

A recent study from the US has spilled the beans (pun intended!) on the best time to drink coffee for maximum health benefits. And guess what? Morning coffee drinkers are winning big.

The magic of morning coffee
According to a study published in the European Heart Journal, people who drink their coffee primarily in the morning have a 16% lower risk of death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of heart disease-related deaths. That’s some serious motivation to embrace your morning coffee routine!

But what about all-day coffee sippers?
If you’re the type who nurses a cup from sunrise to sundown, here’s some bitter news—drinking coffee throughout the day doesn’t offer the same heart benefits. Researchers suggest that late-day coffee might mess with your body’s internal clock, leading to sleep issues and potential heart risks.

When should you drink coffee in a day?
To maximize the health benefits, follow these coffee-drinking tips:

Best time to drink coffee:
Between 9 am and 11 am – This is when your body’s cortisol (stress hormone) levels naturally dip, making it the perfect time for a caffeine boost.

Before noon – Morning coffee aligns with your body’s natural wake cycle and metabolism.

After breakfast – Drinking coffee on an empty stomach may lead to acidity or digestive issues.

Worst time to drink coffee:
Late afternoon or evening (after 3 pm) – Caffeine can stay in your system for hours, disrupting your sleep.

Right after waking up – Your cortisol levels are already high in the morning, so drinking coffee too early might not be as effective.

What does this mean for you?

• Enjoy your coffee in the am – The earlier, the better!
• Don’t go overboard – Too much caffeine can still cause jitters and heart palpitations.
• Be mindful of add-ons – Cream, sugar, and flavoured syrups can turn your healthy brew into a calorie-laden treat.
• Be mindful of add-ons – Cream, sugar, and syrups can turn your healthy brew into a sugar bomb.

So, next time you sip on that steaming cup of coffee, remember—you’re not just waking up, you’re doing your heart a favour! Cheers to guilt-free caffeine!