Who does not want to indulge in a nice warm cup of coffee during a gathering with friends, or while at work or when reading a book in silence? Coffee is one of the most popular beverages globally, enjoyed by people of all ages. The enticing aroma and taste of coffee make it a preferred choice for many. Some people prefer having their coffee first thing in the morning, while others enjoy sipping it in the afternoon while working. There are even those who indulge in a cup of coffee before bed, despite its stimulating effects. While coffee offers certain health benefits, timing can influence how effective and beneficial it is for your body. As the world celebrates International Coffee Day today on October 1, here is some information on the optimal time of drinking coffee.
According to a report, the optimal time to drink coffee is between 9:30 am and 11:30 am. This is when cortisol levels — often referred to as the stress hormone — are naturally lower in most people. Consuming coffee during this time is believed to be more beneficial, as caffeine can cause a spike in cortisol. Drinking coffee when cortisol levels are already high, such as during periods of stress, may lead to increased stress. This recommendation is not universally accepted. While many experts agree with this timing, others suggest that individual responses to caffeine can vary, and the “best” time may differ from person to person.
Now the question is how much coffee should people drink every day?
According to many researches, a healthy person can consume up to 400 mg of caffeine per day. In simple words, drinking about 4 cups (950 ml) of coffee a day can be considered safe. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not drink more than 300 mg of caffeine, that is 2-3 cups of coffee a day. Some studies show that one should not drink more than 2 cups of coffee per day. Caffeine is not only found in coffee, but also in tea, cold drinks, energy drinks and dark chocolate.
Health experts advise against drinking coffee at night, as it can interfere with sleep. Caffeine, a stimulant, can disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and leading to various sleep-related issues. While it’s generally safe to drink coffee from morning to evening, it’s recommended to stop consuming it several hours before bedtime to avoid any potential sleep disturbances.
Individuals with high blood pressure should be cautious about their coffee intake, as caffeine can raise blood pressure temporarily. If you encounter any issues after consuming coffee, consult a doctor.
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