Among other things, coffee can increase attention and concentration, enhance cognitive and physical performance, and prevent certain diseases. However, you must be careful with the time of day in which it is consumed, as it can have adverse effects in some circumstances.
Coffee is loved all over the world thanks to its flavor and its ability to wake us up and help us face the day with energy. It is one of the most popular drinks, in fact, it is estimated that more than 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed per day. In Spain, consumption is especially high, with an average of 4 coffees daily for each person.
It’s no secret that coffee has benefits for your health. Caffeine, its main active ingredient, helps you stay alert and focusedbut it also improves your physical and mental performance, as well as reducing the risk of some diseases.
Some scientific studies have revealed that this drink could offer protection against multiple diseases, including Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes, making it a health advocate in certain aspects.
However, this is where experts shed interesting light on the issue. Drinking coffee in the morning, right after waking up, may not be the optimal choice, according to the latest studies. But why? Here are some science-backed reasons.
Risks of drinking coffee on an empty stomach
- You can become dehydrated: Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can make you urinate more. Starting your day with a cup of coffee might not be the best way to replenish the fluids you lost overnight. It is for this reason that water remains the best option for staying hydrated first thing in the morning.
- You increase cortisol levels: When you wake up, levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, are at their peak. Early consumption of coffee can stimulate additional production of this element, potentially increasing stress levels in your body. In the end, it would counteract an energizing effect.
Although there are some reasons to avoid coffee in the morning, there are also some benefits to consider. This drink can help you stay alert and focused, improve your physical and mental performance, as well as reduce the risk of some diseases, such as Parkinson’s.
In general, It is advisable not to consume more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to approximately four cups of coffee.
Also, try not to make coffee the first liquid you consume as soon as you wake up, start the morning with a glass of water that will help you hydrate and try not to drink coffee after 4 in the afternoon, so that it does not prevent you from sleeping well. .