Coffee can extend your lifespan... if you drink it at the right time ☕

Drinking coffee in the morning could be a key to living longer. A recent study reveals that the time of consumption influences its effects on cardiovascular health and longevity.

Researchers examined the coffee consumption habits of over 40,000 adults. Their results show that morning coffee drinkers benefit from a significant reduction in mortality risks. But why does this beloved beverage act differently depending on the time of day?

Morning coffee, an asset for longevity

People who consume coffee before noon have a 16% reduced risk of mortality (from all causes). For cardiovascular diseases, this risk decreases by 31%. These impressive numbers highlight the importance of timing in the benefits of coffee.

On the other hand, those who drink it throughout the day do not see these advantages materialize. This difference suggests that the time of consumption plays an important role, beyond the mere quantity ingested.

Circadian rhythm and coffee: a delicate balance

Consuming coffee in the afternoon or evening could disrupt the circadian rhythm, the body's internal clock. This would affect the production of melatonin, a hormone essential for sleep, and increase the risks of inflammation and hypertension.

In the morning, however, the body is more receptive to the anti-inflammatory effects of coffee. Bioactive compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, then act optimally, strengthening the body's natural defenses.

A pioneering study with promising results

Conducted by Tulane University, this study is the first to explore the impact of coffee consumption timing on health. Researchers analyzed data from the American National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, tracked over nearly ten years.

The results, published in the European Heart Journal, pave the way for new recommendations. They suggest that dietary advice could incorporate the time of consumption, in addition to recommended amounts.

Questions still pending

While the benefits of morning coffee are now established, the precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Researchers are considering clinical trials to confirm these observations and explore other populations.

In the meantime, one thing is certain: drinking coffee in the morning seems to be a winning habit for health. But be careful not to overdo it in the afternoon or evening, at the risk of canceling its beneficial effects.

To go further: What is the circadian rhythm?

The circadian rhythm is the body's internal clock, regulating biological processes on a cycle of approximately 24 hours. It influences sleep, wakefulness, digestion, and even the production of hormones like melatonin.

This rhythm is synchronized by external signals, mainly daylight. When it is disrupted, for example by coffee consumption in the evening, it can affect sleep quality and increase the risks of cardiovascular disorders.

Studies show that respecting the circadian rhythm is essential for optimal health. For example, melatonin, produced in the late afternoon, promotes sleep. Caffeine, on the other hand, can delay this production if consumed too late.

Understanding and respecting this natural rhythm allows for better management of energy, sleep, and overall health. This explains why the timing of coffee consumption is so important to maximize its benefits.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain, mainly in the dark. It plays a key role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, helping to synchronize our internal clock with the natural cycles of light and darkness.

This hormone is often called the "sleep hormone" because it promotes sleep and improves rest quality. Its production is inhibited by light, especially the blue light from screens, and by stimulants like caffeine.

Adequate levels of melatonin are essential for restorative sleep. A disruption in its production, due for example to coffee consumption in the evening, can lead to insomnia or circadian rhythm disorders.

In addition to its role in sleep, melatonin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It thus helps protect cells and support cardiovascular health, reinforcing the importance of maintaining its balance.

What is chlorogenic acid?

Chlorogenic acid is a bioactive compound abundantly present in coffee, but also in some fruits and vegetables. It is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the protection of cells against oxidative damage.

This compound plays a role in regulating metabolism, particularly by reducing sugar absorption in the intestine. This can help stabilize blood sugar and prevent diseases like type 2 diabetes.

Moreover, chlorogenic acid is associated with a reduction in fat storage, making it a potential ally for weight management. Its effects on cardiovascular health are also being studied, particularly for its impact on blood pressure.

Chlorogenic acid is thus one of the many beneficial compounds in coffee, partly explaining why this beverage can have positive effects on health when consumed in moderation and at the right time.