The Best Time Of Day To Drink Coffee

Did You Know: 62% of Americans drink 3 cups (or more) of coffee on a daily basis. Classified as a dietary staple in homes worldwide, coffee is more than just a drink…more than a caffeine addition…it’s an experience.

Rich in antioxidants, coffee has a long list of health benefits that range from heart health to performance enhancement. But enjoying it first thing in the morning, before breakfast (or even worse, before water) can quickly turn a good thing into a bad thing.

First of all, there’s the ADRENALS. Coffee is a stimulant that creates a false sense of energy. When you consume it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning, your natural cortisol production is suppressed and circadian rhythm is disrupted. This trickles down to all of the other hormones leading to a myriad of different symptoms: blood sugar imbalance, energy and mood swings, anxiety, indigestion, and sleep issues to name a few. If you have Adrenal Fatigue (take the QUIZ here), I urge you to be very mindful of your caffeine intake, especially the timing. If you’re open to it, drink matcha instead–it provides a much gentler and more balanced buzz.

Secondly, there’s ACID REFLUX. Traditionally, coffee is very acidic and a known trigger for reflux, heartburn, GERD and other digestive issues. If this sounds like you, I recommend drinking low acid, organic and mycotoxin-free coffee WITH or after a meal, rather than on an empty stomach.

Thirdly, there’s the DEHYDRATION. Although coffee contains water, it’s also a diuretic which means it pulls water from the body and increases urination (ahem…dehydrating!). This can be problematic for people of all ages, at all times of the day, but it’s an even bigger issue first thing in the morning as you naturally wake dehydrated (and hungry). If you aren’t willing to give up your early morning coffee, at least drink a large 16-20 oz. glass of water beforehand.

So when is the BEST time to drink coffee? Between 9-10am when your cortisol production naturally dips. If you’re an early riser, and/or have Adrenal Fatigue, sleep issues, acid reflux or dehydration, this also provides you with plenty of time to buffer your stomach with a meal and water before introducing coffee into the system.

Looking for more guidance on Adrenal Fatigue? Click HERE to book a One-On-One Coaching Session!