That’s right, data now shows that starting your day with coffee not only keeps you energized, but it actually protects your heart. a new study European Heart Journal The study found that people who drank coffee in the morning had a 31% lower risk of death from heart disease and a 16% lower risk of death from all causes compared with non-coffee drinkers. However, drinking coffee throughout the day offers no such benefits.
The study, led by Dr. Qi Lu of Tulane University, analyzed dietary data from more than 42,000 U.S. adults for a week. Their coffee habits were divided into morning-only drinkers, all-day coffee drinkers and non-coffee drinkers and followed for nearly a decade. People who drank coffee in the morning showed the most significant health benefits, regardless of whether they drank two cups or more.
Time of day appears to be crucial. Coffee in the afternoon and evening may disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, including the production of melatonin, which helps regulate sleep. This disruption can trigger inflammation and increase cardiovascular risk. However, morning coffee can work in conjunction with the body’s natural surge of energy, enhancing its benefits.
Cardiologist Dr. Thomas Lüscher explains: “When you wake up, your body ramps up activity, but at night this energy wanes. Drinking coffee too late interferes with this natural rhythm.
If you’ve ever regretted the late-night coffee that kept you awake, this study reinforces the wisdom of sticking with your morning coffee. Changing your coffee routine to earlier in the day may be a simple way to support heart health and longevity. Always consult your health care provider if you have specific questions.