High cortisol, acid reflux, and anxiety risks: Experts recommend delaying coffee by 1.5–2 hours after waking
April 16, 2025: If grabbing a hot cup of coffee is your first move in the morning, you may want to rethink the habit. While coffee is beloved for its energizing effect, drinking it immediately after waking may do more harm than good, says Dr. Archana Batra, a dietician and certified diabetes educator.
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☕ Why Coffee First Thing May Be Harmful
- Increases stomach acid: Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can trigger acid reflux and digestive discomfort.
- Elevates cortisol: Caffeine spikes cortisol, the body’s natural stress hormone, which is already at its peak in the morning (6–10 AM). Elevated cortisol can lead to weight gain, acne, fatigue, and high blood pressure over time.
- Heightens stress & anxiety: For some, coffee early in the day may intensify feelings of stress or unease, particularly when consumed without food.
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⏰ When Should You Drink Coffee?
Dr. Batra recommends waiting 1.5 to 2 hours after waking before your first cup. This allows cortisol levels to stabilize and makes caffeine more effective for a smoother, longer-lasting energy boost.
“Coffee isn’t bad. It’s about when and how you drink it,” she says. Having a light meal before coffee can also reduce digestive issues.
✅ The Good Side of Coffee
Despite the timing concerns, coffee still offers benefits when consumed right:
- Rich in antioxidants
- Improves brain function
- Supports metabolism
Tags: morning coffee habit, caffeine and cortisol, best time for coffee, coffee and metabolism, health tips, digestive health, caffeine and anxiety, Dr Archana Batra, coffee on empty stomach