Every few months, I scroll past a new claim that there’s a best time to drink coffee in the morning but paid no attention — until now.
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It may seem ironic since I’m a health and wellness enthusiast (I drink daily ginger shots and obsess over my protein intake), but something about messing with my morning coffee just feels like a step too far. I’ve stressed myself out over oat milk being allegedly “unhealthy,” and even broke up with my beloved alternative creamer. So when it comes to coffee, I drink it when I can. And that’s that.
Fortunately, I might have actually been onto something. Despite recurring claims that there is a “best” time to drink coffee for health benefits, this might not actually be the case. What is true — and backed by actual research — however, are coffee’s various health benefits.
Health benefits of coffee
“There is research that indicates a moderate amount of coffee, meaning to five cups per day, can result in protection from certain diseases due to the antioxidants that it contains,” Jennifer Beery, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian at Orlando Health, says. “Studies have shown that coffee can decrease risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and Parkinson’s disease.”
In lower doses, studies have also found that it can help boost your mood, cognitive performance, and decrease depression and anxiety. “Not only does coffee have antioxidants and compounds that act as anti-inflammatories, but it has nutrients including potassium, niacin and magnesium,” she says. “Coffee can also boost your exercise performance.” Not bad!
What’s the best time to drink coffee?
Is there really a “best” time to drink it to reap all of those benefits? No. “There is no scientific research that indicates there is a ‘best time’ to drink coffee,” Beery clarifies. “Since caffeine is a stimulant, most people like to drink this to help them wake up.”
There are some things to consider, however, such as potential gastrointestinal issues or nighttime caffeine. “Drinking a cup of water or eating food before coffee may be best for those that have digestive issues when drinking coffee on an empty stomach, and I would also be careful not to drink it too late in the day so this does not disturb sleep,” she continues.
While it varies from person to person depending on their tolerance, Beery suggests avoiding caffeine in the later afternoon hours so it does not impact your sleep schedule.
How much coffee is too much?
While there isn’t necessarily a proper time to drink coffee, there is a recommended limit on actual caffeine intake. According to Beery, most adults should be having a maximum of 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is what you’ll find in three to five eight-ounce cups.
“This applies to non-coffee related drinks like soda and energy drink as well,” she says. “Excessive intake of caffeine can increase your heart rate, cause anxiety, and lead to trouble falling asleep, though caffeine tolerance can be different for everyone.”
What about drinking coffee for weight loss?
Some people swear by coffee for weight loss and boosting their metabolism. But is there actually any merit — or rather, research — backing that claim? Actually, yes!
“There are some studies that indicate drinking coffee may lead to reduction in body fat and weight loss when incorporated into a healthful diet,” Beery says. “Coffee beans do have components such as antioxidants that can help boost metabolism.” However, she notes that what you add to the coffee makes a major difference in how “healthy” it is in the end. “Try not go overboard on the cream and sugar,” she says.
As for the best time to drink coffee for weight loss? “There is not any evidence that drinking coffee at a specific time may help with weight loss,” Beery concludes.
How to boost energy without increasing caffeine
To help fight off fatigue, Beery suggests getting proper sleep, aiming for seven hours per night, partaking in regular exercise, staying hydrated, and eating a healthful diet including fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
“Reducing stress may help to boost energy as well,” Beery concludes. “Meditation, breathing exercises, going for a walk, or even just talking with a friend may help.”
Originally published in Glamour.com
