People have been urged to stop drinking coffee before 9am, as the timing of your daily cup may be having a significant effect on your health. According to pharmacist Rojina Shams Nateri, a simple rule needs to be followed when it comes to enjoying the drink.
Why morning coffee may be harmful
Rojina Shams Nateri, Pharmacist at Roseway Labs, explained that reaching for coffee before drinking water worsens the dehydration accumulated overnight and works against your body's natural rhythms. Cortisol is the body's wake-up hormone, peaking roughly 30 to 60 minutes after rising, and Rojina warns that flooding your system with caffeine before this hormone has performed its function disrupts your body's natural regulation.
She further explains that caffeine can wreak havoc with hormones too. There is, in fact, an optimal window in which to enjoy your coffee for maximum benefit.
Best time to enjoy coffee
Offering her professional insight, Rojina said: "It's much better tolerated 60 to 90 minutes after waking, as it allows adrenal function to balance out, meaning the caffeine in your coffee is used more strategically and effectively."
She also cautioned, however, that coffee alone isn't the sole concern. She additionally noted several so-called "healthy" trends should also be avoided. For instance, a breakfast high in sugar but low in protein can wreak havoc with your blood sugar and sustained energy levels, according to the specialist. Cold showers also stimulate adrenaline that can prove exhausting over time.
Exercising on an empty stomach can deplete glucose and glycogen levels, contributing to the body's stress response and leaving you feeling more fatigued rather than energised. Checking emails first thing prompts an early dopamine surge, resulting in mental exhaustion.
How you should wake up
For improved and more reliable energy, Rojina suggests a gentle-paced morning. She stated: "Start with water before caffeine to restore hydration. Limit screen exposure in the first hour and try to get natural morning light in with a walk, for example, to support your circadian rhythm."
She also recommends obtaining proper tests before taking supplements. She continued: "B12, iron and magnesium are great but they should always be guided by blood test results to ensure a true clinical benefit. Magnesium is often better suited to evening use rather than for immediate energy."
Consuming coffee before 9am might explain why you're shattered by 3pm. Numerous people are triggering blood sugar spikes and disruption. By delaying your morning caffeine fix, you allow your body's natural cortisol (stress hormone) levels to peak and subside, preventing excessive jitters and enabling caffeine to deliver a more effective, natural energy boost.
Furthermore, drinking coffee on an empty stomach immediately upon waking can heighten stomach acidity, which may trigger acid reflux. There are several reasons why it's advisable to wait. So, in summary, hydrate first, consume some protein and hold off for 60 to 90 minutes before reaching for that morning cuppa. You'll notice the difference come the afternoon.
