New Study: Coffee Is Healthier Than We Thought — But Only at the Right Time

For many, coffee is part of the morning routine — and according to a new study, this habit could be the key to a healthier life.

Researchers from Tulane University and Harvard Medical School analyzed data from over 40,000 adults who participated in a long-term study on lifestyle and health in women and men between 1999 and 2018.

What the study found

A smaller subgroup of the study also kept detailed records of what they ate and drank for a week. The key result: Those who drank their coffee in the morning — whether moderately or in larger amounts — had a 31% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases. Their overall mortality risk also decreased by 16%. In contrast, those who drank coffee throughout the day did not benefit from the same health advantages according to the study. This suggests that it’s not the coffee consumption itself, but mainly the timing that matters.

What’s behind this? Initial explanations

The study can’t provide a definite explanation yet, but there are plausible hypotheses.
For one, coffee affects the circadian rhythm and melatonin levels — processes closely linked to the cardiovascular system.
The autonomic nervous system also plays a role: In the morning, the sympathetic nervous system — the part that activates the body — is especially active. Coffee might support this natural response, whereas it could disrupt it in the evening.

Does coffee also protect against age-related complaints?

Another study suggests that regular coffee consumption may make people more resilient in old age. Researchers from the Netherlands found that high coffee intake is associated with a lower risk of age-related frailty.
Even drinking two to four cups daily was enough to observe this effect. Possible reasons include coffee’s high antioxidant content, anti-inflammatory properties, support for muscle health, and metabolism boost.

Small habit, big impact?

The study shows: Coffee is better than its reputation — at least when consumed at the right time. Especially in the morning, it seems to have positive effects on heart and circulation. Whether this is really the case and what exact mechanisms are behind it will be revealed by future studies.

And those who drink regularly may even benefit in the long term: With a bit of luck, morning coffee doesn’t just provide energy, but also a slightly healthier future.

Photo by Eyad Tariq via pexels