If you love your daily coffee fix, here's a perk: new research says when you drink your coffee might impact your lifespan. According to a study in the European Heart Journal, sticking to a morning coffee schedule could help reduce your risk of early death—regardless of how much coffee you consume.
Morning Magic: What the Study Says
Researchers at Tulane University analyzed data from over 40,000 adults and found those who limited coffee to mornings (4 a.m.–11:59 a.m.) had a 16% lower risk of dying from any cause and a 31% lower risk of dying from heart disease compared to non-coffee drinkers. Drinking coffee throughout the day? Not so much benefit there.
Interestingly, it didn’t matter whether the coffee was regular or decaf or if participants drank one cup or more than three—morning-only coffee drinkers came out ahead.
Why Timing Matters
Caffeine in the afternoon or evening may mess with your body’s circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep, hormones like melatonin, and even inflammation levels. Researchers suggest that the anti-inflammatory effects of coffee might work best when aligned with your body’s natural rhythms in the morning.
Not Just About Coffee
Experts say morning coffee drinkers might also follow healthier habits overall—exercising more, eating better, and avoiding ultra-processed foods. Still, the findings suggest timing alone is worth considering for your next coffee break.
How to Make the Shift
Not ready to give up that 3 p.m. pick-me-up? Start small:
Dilute your afternoon coffee or mix it with water.
Focus on better sleep to reduce reliance on late-day caffeine.
Check for health issues like low vitamin D or thyroid problems if you’re always fatigued.
For a smoother wake-up, you might also explore non-caffeine energizers like hydration, movement, or healthy snacks.
While the study doesn’t prove causation, it adds weight to the idea that a mindful coffee habit can be more than just a morning ritual—it might be a life extender.
So, set your coffee clock, pour yourself a cup, and toast to your health—cheers to mornings! ☕
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