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A recent scientific study has shown that drinking coffee in the morning may be more than just a daily habit it could have significant health benefits, particularly in reducing the risk of death from heart disease.
The research, conducted by epidemiologists at Tulane University's School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, was published in the European Heart Journal. It highlights the critical role of coffee timing in promoting heart health.
Morning Benefits Only
According to the study, which involved over 40,000 participants, individuals who drank coffee in the morning had a 16% lower likelihood of dying from any cause and a 31% lower risk of death from cardiovascular diseases compared to those who either skipped coffee or consumed it at other times of the day.
Interestingly, the same benefits were not observed among people who drank coffee throughout the day or avoided it entirely. This finding emphasizes the importance of timing in maximizing coffee's health advantages.
Timing Matters
Dr. Lu Qi, the study's lead researcher and a professor of public health at Tulane University, stated that this study is the first of its kind to explore the connection between coffee timing and heart health. "Our findings suggest that the health benefits of coffee are not just about the quantity consumed but also about when it's consumed," Dr. Qi explained. "Coffee timing could be a critical factor to consider in future dietary guidelines."
Why Morning Matters
Experts believe that drinking coffee in the morning may help regulate the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. In contrast, consuming it in the afternoon or evening can disrupt sleep and hormones like melatonin, potentially increasing cardiovascular risks.
Professor Thomas Lüscher from the Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals in London noted, “The nervous system is at its most active in the morning, making coffee more aligned with the body’s biological rhythm. On the other hand, drinking coffee in the evening may lead to sleep disturbances that can negatively affect heart health.”
How Many Cups Are Optimal?
The study found that consuming 2 to 3 cups of coffee in the morning provided the best heart protection, while those who limited themselves to just one cup experienced less benefit.
For coffee lovers, the takeaway is clear: the best time to enjoy your favorite brew is in the morning. Coffee is not just a pick-me-up; it may also be a vital ally for your health—provided you drink it at the right time.