Coffee consumption in the morning may significantly reduce mortality risk, particularly from cardiovascular disease, according to new research published in the European Heart Journal.

The study, involving over 40,000 adults, found that morning coffee drinkers had a 16% lower risk of all-cause mortality and a 31% decreased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death compared to non-coffee drinkers. Notably, these benefits were not observed in people who consumed coffee throughout the day.

Key findings:

• Morning coffee drinkers (before noon) showed the greatest health benefits
• Moderate to heavy morning coffee consumption (2-3+ cups) provided greater benefits than light consumption
• All-day coffee drinkers showed no significant reduction in mortality risk
• No association was found between coffee consumption patterns and cancer-related mortality

The exact mechanism behind these morning coffee benefits remains unclear. However, researchers suggest that afternoon and evening coffee consumption may disrupt sleep patterns and affect hormones like melatonin, which regulate the body's circadian rhythm.

Dr. Lu Qi, the study's lead researcher from Tulane University, recommends limiting coffee consumption to morning hours, particularly for those drinking two or more cups daily.

Study limitations include:

• Predominantly white participants with higher family incomes
• Reliance on self-reported data
• Observational nature of the study

While these findings suggest potential benefits of morning coffee consumption, some experts caution that more rigorous research is needed before making definitive recommendations about coffee consumption timing.

For optimal health benefits, consider limiting coffee intake to morning hours and avoiding late-day consumption that might interfere with sleep patterns.

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