A recent study has found that drinking coffee in the morning may offer significant benefits for heart health, with those who consume coffee in the early hours living longer than those who do not.
Published in the European Heart Journal, the research examined the health outcomes of over 40,000 adults across the United States, offering new insights into the timing of coffee consumption and its potential impact on cardiovascular health. According to the study, morning coffee drinkers are 31% less likely to die from heart disease compared to those who avoid the beverage or consume it later in the day.
Timing Matters: Morning Coffee vs. All-Day Consumption
Natalie Raffoul, a spokesperson for the Heart Foundation, emphasized that moderate coffee intake, especially in the morning, could significantly improve heart health. “Drinking a moderate amount of coffee, particularly in the morning, may improve your heart health outcomes,” she explained.
The study suggests that drinking coffee throughout the day does not offer the same health benefits. Researchers believe that consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening could disrupt the body’s internal clock, interfering with melatonin production—the hormone that regulates sleep patterns. This disruption may negate some of the positive effects of caffeine.
Additionally, coffee’s anti-inflammatory properties may be more pronounced when caffeine is consumed earlier in the day. The timing of consumption could allow the body to better absorb these beneficial effects, potentially reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health.
Moderate Consumption is Key
The Heart Foundation has stressed that the ideal amount of coffee for heart health seems to be two to three cups a day. The study showed reduced risk for both moderate and heavy morning coffee drinkers, with the most significant benefits observed for those who stick to a moderate intake.
However, Raffoul cautioned that more research is needed in this area, particularly randomized controlled trials to further validate these findings. “It’s always good to speak to your doctor about the right amount of caffeine for you, particularly if you have a heart condition,” she added.
General Health Advice
While the findings provide intriguing insights, the Heart Foundation advises that the information is general in nature. For personalized health advice, individuals should consult with their GP or healthcare provider to ensure any changes to caffeine consumption align with their specific health needs.
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