Drinking coffee in the morning has become a daily habit of people in many countries. A cup of coffee at the start of the day can enhance focus and provide an energy boost. Interestingly, recent studies suggest that morning coffee consumption may offer benefits for heart health. What are the facts behind this? Read on to find out.

How Morning Coffee Benefits Your Heart

Research suggests that both the quantity of coffee consumed and the timing of consumption play a role in its effects on health.

According to Everyday Health, studies indicate that drinking coffee in the morning may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease compared to drinking coffee throughout the day or avoiding coffee entirely.

A study published in the European Heart Journal found that individuals who drink coffee only in the morning have a lower risk of dying from heart-related conditions compared to non-coffee drinkers.

While the exact reason behind this effect is still unclear, experts suggest that drinking coffee later in the day may disrupt circadian rhythms and hormone balance, particularly melatonin levels. This disruption may increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, including inflammation and high blood pressure.

The study also revealed that while any amount of morning coffee can be beneficial, the most significant health benefits were observed in those who drank at least two cups before noon.

Healthy Coffee Drinking Tips for Your Heart

According to WebMD, here are some tips to maximize the heart health benefits of coffee:

Choose Light Roast Coffee

Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and neutralize free radicals. The roasting process affects the flavor and antioxidant content of coffee. Light roast coffee retains higher antioxidant levels compared to dark roast varieties.

Opt for Unsweetened Coffee

Black coffee without added sugar is naturally low in calories, fat, and sodium while being a good source of micronutrients like potassium, magnesium, and niacin. If you prefer sweetened coffee, try to limit sugar to no more than one to two teaspoons per cup.

Use Low-Fat Milk

For those who enjoy coffee with milk or cream, low-fat milk or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk are healthier options. These choices provide fewer calories while enhancing the flavor of your coffee.

Limit Daily Coffee Intake

While coffee offers numerous health benefits, excessive consumption can lead to side effects. The recommended caffeine intake should not exceed 400 milligrams per day, which is approximately four cups of coffee. Excessive caffeine consumption may cause heart palpitations, anxiety, rapid breathing, and headaches.

Research suggests that drinking at least two cups of coffee in the morning can have positive effects on heart health. However, individuals who experience restlessness or difficulty sleeping after consuming coffee should consider adjusting their intake. If you have concerns about how coffee affects your health, consult a doctor or take advantage of the health consultation feature on the Ai Care application, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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