Morning Coffee Consumption Linked to Longevity, Experts Suggest
Drinking a specific beverage in the morning may contribute to a longer lifespan, according to a health expert. However, consuming this drink after midday may not yield the same benefits, and some speculate it could even have adverse effects.
Coffee: A Morning Ritual for Millions
Millions of individuals in the UK habitually consume coffee upon waking, with many considering it an indispensable part of their morning routine.
The Type of Coffee Matters for Longevity Benefits
Research indicates that individuals who consume at least one cup of black, unsweetened, medium-roast coffee in the morning may increase their lifespan. Medium roasts are preferable. Avoiding sugar and cream is important to maintain lower calorie intake.
Expert Endorsement for Morning Coffee
Dan Buettner, an American longevity researcher and author, supports this claim. He stated, “Coffee is one of the most beneficial beverages for longevity. For optimal results, it’s best consumed before noon. Drinking coffee in the morning may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.”
Buettner further noted, “Consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening may not provide the same cardiovascular benefits and could disrupt sleep patterns. Poor sleep is associated with a reduced lifespan.”
Study Reinforces Timing of Coffee Consumption
These views are echoed by findings from a study published in the European Heart Journal. The research suggests that the timing of coffee consumption is more significant than the quantity.
The study analyzed data from approximately 40,000 adults regarding their daily intake of caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Participants were initially free from heart and circulatory diseases.
Data analysis revealed that over a third (36%) of participants primarily consumed coffee in the morning, between 4 am and 12 pm.
Reduced Risk of Heart Disease
The study found that individuals who primarily drank coffee in the morning exhibited a 31% lower risk of mortality from heart or circulatory diseases over a 10-year period compared to non-coffee drinkers. The study also assessed cancer mortality risk but found no significant correlation with coffee consumption at any time of day.
Anti-inflammatory Properties of Coffee
Researchers suggest that morning coffee consumption might reduce the risk of heart and circulatory diseases due to the anti-inflammatory substances present in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee.
Chronic inflammation is linked to the buildup of plaques in blood vessels, potentially leading to heart attacks or strokes. Adopting a healthy diet to mitigate chronic illness risks can contribute to a longer life.
Expert Opinion and Considerations
Researchers propose that morning coffee drinkers may experience greater benefits from coffee’s anti-inflammatory effects because inflammatory molecules are more active earlier in the day. However, some experts emphasize a balanced perspective on dietary choices.
Tracy Parker, a senior dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, commented, “Moderate coffee consumption, around 4 to 5 cups daily, is generally considered safe for most individuals and does not appear to negatively impact heart health. This study indicates that the timing of consumption could also be relevant.”
Parker added, “It’s important to acknowledge that this type of study cannot establish direct cause and effect. Therefore, we cannot definitively state that morning coffee directly reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke. Nevertheless, consuming coffee earlier in the day is unlikely to be detrimental and could potentially benefit heart health.”
Potential Risks of Coffee Consumption
Coffee does present some risks, primarily due to its caffeine content. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, headaches, and elevated heart rate.
Caffeinated coffee may worsen heartburn or acid reflux. Increased urinary frequency and urgency are also possible side effects of caffeine consumption.
Recommended Intake
For most adults, consuming up to three to four cups of coffee daily, or approximately 400 milligrams of caffeine, is considered safe when combined with a healthy, balanced diet and regular physical activity.