A cardiologist has revealed the best time of day to drink coffee, revealing it can be “beneficial for the heart.” Not only that, but it can reduce the risk of diabetes and can aid in weight loss.
Dr Aurelio Rojas, a leading expert, highlights that the popular beverage has unfairly been categorised as bad. While many believe coffee is harmful, this misconception stems from studies that link its negative effects to excessive consumption, notes lavanguardia.
In contrast, recent research published in the European Heart Journal (EHJ) showcases coffee’s beneficial effects and provides guidance on how to enjoy it responsibly without harming our health.
Dr Aurelio said that “the time you drink your coffee could affect your heart.” He emphasises the importance of paying attention to studies and research rather than some social media recommendations that suggest counterproductive explanations.
What is the best time of day to drink coffee?
A study published by the EHJ explored how the timing of coffee consumption affects mortality, including overall and specific causes of death, among the U.S. population. The study analysed data from 40,725 adults who participated in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Participants provided details about their regular consumption of foods and beverages, including whether they drank coffee, the quantity consumed, and the time of consumption. Key findings revealed that individuals who limited their coffee intake to the morning experienced a longer life expectancy and a lower risk of heart attacks. Morning coffee consumption was associated with a 31% lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases and a 17% reduction in premature death.
However, the cardiologist cautioned that these benefits are lost if coffee is consumed throughout the day. Dr Rojas further highlighted the drink’s positive effect on heart health, noting its ability to reduce the risk of diabetes, support weight management, and improve cardiovascular health due to its antioxidant properties.
The timing of consumption plays a crucial role. Drinking coffee in the afternoon or evening can disrupt the circadian rhythm, affecting hormones like melatonin and cortisol, potentially increasing inflammation and raising blood pressure. The study concluded: “Drinking coffee in the morning may be more strongly associated with a lower risk of mortality than drinking coffee later in the day.”
However, another study said drinking coffee earlier in the morning after dawn is linked to a higher risk of death. Yet the study found having coffee and tea later in the morning, befre noon, is linked to a lower risk of overall mortality, CVD, and heart disease in individuals with diabetes.