New Delhi: A recent study has highlighted the health benefits of drinking coffee in the morning, suggesting it may significantly lower the risk of heart disease and overall mortality. Published in the European Heart Journal, the research indicates that individuals who consume coffee primarily in the morning have better heart health outcomes compared to those who drink it throughout the day.
The study, conducted by researchers at Tulane University in the US, analyzed data from 40,725 adults between 1999 and 2018. Participants were asked about their coffee consumption, including the quantity and timing of their intake. A subgroup of 1,463 participants also maintained detailed food and beverage diaries over a week.
The findings revealed that morning coffee drinkers were 16% less likely to die from any cause and 31% less likely to die from cardiovascular disease. In contrast, no significant reduction in risk was observed among individuals who drank coffee throughout the day, compared to non-coffee drinkers.
"This is the first study to examine the timing of coffee consumption and its impact on health outcomes," said Dr. Lu Qi, Professor at Tulane University to IANS. "Our results suggest that not only the amount of coffee but also the time of day it is consumed plays a critical role in determining its health benefits."
The study categorized participants into morning coffee drinkers (those who drank coffee before midday), all-day drinkers (morning, afternoon, and evening), and non-coffee drinkers. More than one-third of participants consumed coffee exclusively in the morning, while less than one-fourth drank it throughout the day.
Morning coffee drinkers experienced health benefits regardless of their consumption levels. Moderate drinkers (two to three cups daily) and heavy drinkers (more than three cups) showed significant reductions in risk. However, light drinkers (one cup or less) demonstrated smaller benefits.
While the study underscores the advantages of morning coffee consumption, it does not explain the mechanisms behind these findings. Dr. Qi suggested that drinking coffee in the afternoon or evening might disrupt circadian rhythms and hormone levels, such as melatonin, leading to adverse cardiovascular effects. Factors like inflammation and blood pressure could also play a role.
Further research is needed to confirm these observations and explore the underlying biological mechanisms. Nonetheless, this study reinforces the potential role of coffee as a beneficial beverage when consumed at the right time.