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Alert issued to people in Ireland who drink coffee before 9am

An alert has been issued to people who drink coffee. According to pharmacist Rojina Shams Nateri, it should be avoided before 9am as it could hinder your health

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An alert has been issued to coffee drinkers (stock image)(Image: Creative Images Lab via Getty Images)

Many people start their day desperately reaching for their morning coffee, yet few stop to consider that there are times when you'd be far better off giving it a miss entirely. You could actually be doing yourself more harm than good, as the timing of your daily brew may be having a considerable impact on your overall health.

Rojina Shams Nateri, Pharmacist at Roseway Labs, explained that reaching for coffee before drinking water worsens the dehydration accumulated overnight and works against your body's natural rhythms. Cortisol is the body's wake-up hormone, peaking roughly 30 to 60 minutes after rising, and Rojina warns that flooding your system with caffeine before this hormone has performed its function, disrupts your body's natural regulation.

She goes on to explain that caffeine can also play havoc with your hormones. However, in the past, some of the reported benefits of the drink have also been highlighted.

The rules to follow

Sharing her professional insight, Rojina said: "It's much better tolerated 60 to 90 minutes after waking, as it allows adrenal function to balance out, meaning the caffeine in your coffee is used more strategically and effectively."

She did caution, however, that coffee alone isn't the only concern. She also highlighted that several so-called "healthy" trends are best avoided too.

For example, a breakfast laden with sugar yet lacking in protein can cause chaos with your blood sugar and sustained energy levels, according to the expert. Cold showers also trigger adrenaline that can become draining over time.

Working out on an empty stomach can reduce glucose and glycogen levels, adding to the body's stress response and leaving you feeling more drained rather than invigorated. Checking emails first thing triggers an early dopamine spike, leading to mental fatigue.

How to start the day

For better and more consistent energy, Rojina recommends a slower-paced morning. She stated: "Start with water before caffeine to restore hydration.

"Limit screen exposure in the first hour and try to get natural morning light in with a walk, for example, to support your circadian rhythm."

She also advises getting proper tests before taking supplements. She continued: "B12, iron and magnesium are great but they should always be guided by blood test results to ensure a true clinical benefit.

"Magnesium is often better suited to evening use rather than for immediate energy."

Drinking coffee before 9am might explain why you're exhausted by 3pm. Countless people are causing blood sugar spikes and disrupting the natural rhythm of their bodies.

By postponing your morning caffeine fix, you allow your body's natural cortisol (stress hormone) levels to peak and settle, preventing excessive jitters and allowing caffeine to deliver a more effective, natural energy boost.

Additionally, drinking coffee on an empty stomach immediately upon waking can increase stomach acidity, which may trigger acid reflux. There are several reasons why it's advisable to wait.

So, to summarise, hydrate first, eat some protein and hold off for 60 to 90 minutes before reaching for that morning cuppa. You'll notice the difference come the afternoon.

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