A Cambridge University scientist warned anyone who grabs their morning coffee immediately after waking up, suggesting it might not be the most beneficial start to the day. Dr Nina Rzechorzek has advised against the quick caffeine hit first thing in the morning, calling it "unhelpful" for your health.
Dr Rzechorzek points out that our natural cortisol production, which helps us wake up, can be thrown off by early coffee consumption. She notes that coffee can lead to an "unhelpful spike in alertness" and may increase our tolerance to caffeine, potentially leading to dependence, reports the Express.
For coffee lovers looking to fine-tune their morning ritual, Dr Rzechorzek suggests holding off on the first cup of the day. While research on the perfect timing for coffee is still inconclusive, it's hinted that waiting a while after rising could have its perks.
Speaking with The Times, Dr Rzechorzek explained : "Some evidence suggests that waiting just a little bit after you've woken up? Maybe an hour before your first cup might be advantageous."
This advice is backed by sleep expert Rex Isap from Happy Beds, who suggests waiting an hour after waking to maximise the effects of coffee, as reported by Surrey Live.
He stated: "When it comes to the ideal time to have your first coffee, we might tend to reach for the kettle as soon as we wake up. Ideally, however, you want to wait an hour before waking to truly reap the benefits.
"When we wake, our cortisol levels are at their peak. Cortisol, often associated with stress, enhances your alertness levels. So, drinking caffeine while your cortisol levels are already high can work against this or even help with gaining a tolerance for caffeine."
A 2008 study found that daily caffeine consumption could lead to a reduced cortisol response in healthy young adults. Additionally, latest research suggests that your morning brew may provide anti-inflammatory advantages.
Exciting results from the European Heart Journal indicate that drinking coffee in the morning hours could be related to living longer. The study shared: "We found that coffee drinking timing was associated with all-cause mortality risk and cardiovascular-specific mortality risk independent of the amounts of coffee intake."
On the other hand, research in the British Journal of Nutrition cautions that having a hefty black coffee to start your day could negatively impact your blood sugar management throughout the day. The publication recommends: "Following a night of disrupted sleep, individuals should balance the potential stimulating benefits of caffeinated coffee consumption with the potential to increase postprandial glucose excursions."
When it comes to caffeine intake, the NHS recommends moderation. They acknowledge: "Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, depending on how much they drink and how often. Check the label for drinks that are high in caffeine."
The NHS also advises expectant mothers to limit their daily caffeine consumption to no more than 200mg, cautioning: "This could increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight."
