As a nation that drinks 98 million cups of coffee daily, new research suggests that when we drink our coffee might be just as important as how much we consume.
A major study published in the European Heart Journal has revealed fascinating insights into coffee drinking patterns and heart health.
The research, which followed over 40,000 adults, brings promising news for those who enjoy their morning brew.
According to Dr Lu Qi from Tulane University, morning coffee drinkers showed remarkable health advantages.
Those who enjoyed their coffee before midday were:
31% less likely to die from cardiovascular disease
16% lower overall mortality risk compared to non-coffee drinkers.
Professor Thomas F. Lüscher from Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals explains that our bodies experience a natural surge in sympathetic activity during morning hours.
Morning coffee appears to work in harmony with these natural rhythms, whereas afternoon or evening consumption might disrupt them.
The research revealed a fascinating link between timing and health benefits, regardless of how much coffee people consumed.
Even those who drank more than three cups daily saw significant improvements in heart health - as long as they confined their consumption to morning hours.
Morning coffee drinkers showed remarkable benefits compared to both non-drinkers and those who spread their consumption throughout the day.
Professor Lüscher emphasises this point: "We must accept the now substantial evidence that coffee drinking, particularly in the morning hours, is likely to be healthy."
Evening coffee consumption might interfere with our body's natural rhythms and hormone levels, particularly melatonin. This disruption could affect various cardiovascular risk factors, including inflammation and blood pressure levels.
The research revealed that individuals who consumed four or more cups of instant or ground coffee per day had a 19% lower risk of IBS development compared to those who abstained from caffeine.
This research marks the first major study examining coffee drinking patterns and their impact on health outcomes. It suggests that future dietary guidance might need to consider not just what we consume, but when we consume it.
Professor Lüscher emphasises that timing could be a crucial factor in how we think about dietary recommendations. His advice is simple and clear - drink your coffee, but do so in the morning!
1. How much coffee should I drink to get these timing-related benefits?
Most studies suggest that drinking coffee before midday offers optimal benefits, whether you're a moderate (2-3 cups) or heavy (more than 3 cups) drinker. However, individual tolerance may vary.
2. Does the type of coffee matter?
The studies didn't specify particular types, but both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee were considered. The benefits appear to be linked to timing rather than specific coffee types.
3. Will changing my coffee schedule affect my heart health?
Recent research suggests that morning coffee consumption is associated with a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular mortality compared to non-coffee drinkers.
4. What about my afternoon coffee habit?
While the research doesn't suggest afternoon coffee is harmful, the greatest benefits were seen in those who primarily consumed coffee before midday. If you enjoy afternoon coffee, consider gradually shifting your consumption earlier in the day.
This article is for general information only and is not intended to treat or diagnose medical conditions. If in doubt please check with your GP first.
References:
[1] ‘Coffee drinking timing and mortality in US adults’, by X. Wang et al., European Heart Journal https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae871. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae871
[2] ‘Start your day with a morning coffee!’ by T. F. Lüscher, European Heart Journal https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae823. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article-lookup/doi/10.1093/eurheartj/ehae823
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