The Best Time to Drink Coffee: New Research Shifts the Focus From Quantity to Timing
For decades, scientific research on coffee has concentrated largely on how much coffee people drink and its potential health benefits. However, a new study published in the European Heart Journal introduces a critical new perspective: when you drink coffee may be just as important as whether you drink it at all.
The observational study suggests that morning coffee consumption—between 4 a.m. and noon—may significantly enhance coffee’s health benefits, particularly for heart health and overall longevity.
What the Study Found
Led by Dr. Lu Qi, a professor of public health at Tulane University, the research analyzed data from:
- 40,725 adults participating in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2018)
- 1,463 adults from the Women’s and Men’s Lifestyle Validation Study
Participants recorded what they ate and drank over at least one full day, including whether they consumed coffee, how much they drank, and the time of day they drank it.
Key Results
The findings revealed a clear association between morning coffee consumption and reduced mortality risk:
- Individuals who drank coffee in the morning had a 31% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease compared to non-coffee drinkers.
- Morning coffee drinkers also showed a 16% reduction in the risk of death from any cause.
- Notably, this protective effect was observed regardless of how much coffee was consumed, suggesting that timing played a crucial role.
- Coffee consumed later in the day did not show the same protective associations.
As Dr. Qi explained, “Our findings indicate that it’s not just whether you drink coffee or how much you drink, but the time of day when you drink coffee that’s important.”
Why Morning Coffee May Matter More
Researchers suggest several possible explanations:
- Coffee consumed later in the day may interfere with circadian rhythms and sleep patterns.
- Morning coffee aligns better with natural hormonal cycles, including cortisol regulation.
- Coffee’s anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects may be more beneficial earlier in the day.
While the study does not prove causation, it highlights how chrononutrition—the timing of food and beverage intake—can influence health outcomes.
What This Means for Coffee Drinkers
The research does not suggest that people should increase their coffee intake. Instead, it indicates that:
- Shifting coffee consumption to the morning hours may help maximize benefits.
- Enjoying coffee as part of breakfast or early-day routines may be healthier than consuming it later in the afternoon or evening.
The researchers emphasize that more studies are needed, especially controlled trials, to fully understand the biological mechanisms involved.
Final Takeaway
Coffee has long been associated with positive health outcomes—but this study adds an important nuance: timing matters.
Brewing a cup of coffee in the morning may not just be a habit or pleasure—it could be a heart-smart choice. ☕
Published by Kenya Coffee School and Barista Mtaani