Should You Be Drinking Coffee First Thing In The Morning? Expert Explains Why You Shouldn’t.

Many people kickstart their mornings with a steaming cup of coffee, relying on the caffeine boost to shake off the grogginess and get their day going. However, experts are now advising against drinking coffee first thing in the morning. Here’s why waiting a little longer before having your morning coffee might be the better choice for your health.

The Science Behind Morning Coffee and Cortisol Levels

One of the primary reasons experts advise against drinking coffee immediately after waking up is its impact on your cortisol levels. Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” is at its highest levels in the morning as part of your body’s natural waking process. According to a spokesperson from Oddy Knocky Coffee, consuming coffee right away can interfere with your body’s cortisol production, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels throughout the day.¹

Dr. Deborah Lee, a sleep expert from Get Laid Beds, further explains that having coffee in the morning might lead to more harm than good. “Elevated levels of cortisol can impact your immune system, and if they’re already at a peak when waking up, drinking coffee as soon as your eyes open may do more harm than good“.² Over time, this practice could even make you less sensitive to caffeine, reducing its effectiveness.

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The Effect on Digestion

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can also lead to digestive issues. Coffee is highly acidic, with a pH level between 4.85 and 5.13, which can irritate the stomach lining and lead to discomfort or even acid reflux. Registered dietitian Marisa Silver advises that it’s better to pair your coffee with food to cushion its impact on your digestive system.³

“Listen to your body, because everyone’s sensitivity to caffeine and acid is different,” Silver suggests. If drinking coffee on an empty stomach causes you discomfort, consider waiting until after breakfast to enjoy your morning brew.

Dehydration Risks

Another important consideration is the dehydrating effect of coffee. During sleep, your body loses a significant amount of water, making hydration a top priority when you wake up. Sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus recommends drinking 20 to 30 ounces of water first thing in the morning before reaching for your coffee mug. “We lose almost a full liter of water every single night, so we wake up dehydrated,” Breus explains. Starting the day with coffee instead of water can exacerbate this dehydration, leaving you feeling sluggish and fatigued later on.

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When Is the Best Time to Drink Coffee?

So, if first thing in the morning isn’t ideal, when should you have your coffee? Experts suggest waiting until your cortisol levels naturally dip, which typically happens mid-morning. Dr. Lee recommends having your first cup of coffee around 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., when you might start feeling that energy slump. This timing allows you to reap the full benefits of caffeine without interfering with your body’s natural rhythms.

Additionally, to avoid disrupting your sleep, it’s important to limit caffeine intake in the late afternoon and evening. “To avoid messing up your sleeping pattern, avoid any caffeine after 3 p.m.,” advises Dr. Lee. Opting for herbal teas or decaf options later in the day can help you wind down without compromising your sleep quality.

Conclusion

While coffee is a beloved morning ritual for many, drinking it as soon as you wake up may not be the best choice for your health. By understanding the impact of caffeine on cortisol levels, digestion, and hydration, you can make more informed decisions about when to enjoy your coffee. Waiting until mid-morning to have your first cup can help you avoid potential negative effects and ensure you get the most out of your caffeine boost.

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