Navigating coffee culture: Timing your buzz for health benefits
Coffee continues to spark controversy and is often the subject of scientific research. A simple question, such as whether you can have it in the evening or should avoid it, doesn't have a straightforward answer because it depends on many factors.
Coffee is one of our favourite beverages, and new reports on it keep emerging. Numerous studies have shown that it has a positive impact on health. However, you should not overindulge or drink it at inappropriate times.
When to drink coffee
Coffee has earned the reputation of being the best drink to start the day. It stimulates and energizes, and many people enjoy it after lunch. Espresso, in particular, is pleasantly consumed after a meal. However, it's commonly understood that avoiding coffee in the evening is better, as it can make it harder to fall asleep.
Time for the last coffee
It's generally recommended that you drink your last coffee of the day six hours before going to bed. During this time, caffeine has a chance to leave the body. Caffeine can make falling asleep difficult and lead to restless sleep and frequent awakenings at night. It stimulates the nervous system, increases adrenaline and noradrenaline levels, and inhibits adenosine, a neurotransmitter responsible for sleepiness. That's why a small black coffee is helpful when we're studying or working long hours.
Coffee is connected to the daily rhythm
Recent research shows that drinking coffee in the morning can reduce the risk of premature death by up to 16%. Beneficial results are observed with both one and three cups. Drinking coffee in the evening didn't decrease the risk of death, nor did it have a definitive negative effect. Researchers are continuing their studies, but it's clear that coffee is closely linked to our daily rhythm.
Do you want to have coffee in the evening?
- Observe your body. Caffeine affects everyone differently, and sensitivity to it varies.
- In the evening, consider choosing a coffee with low caffeine content or decaffeinated coffee.
- Another option is grain coffee, which tastes great, especially with spices.
- If you enjoy milky coffees, try an herbal latte—milk foam pairs well with chamomile infusion.
- Add spices like cardamom or cinnamon to your decaffeinated or grain coffee for a relaxing effect.
