Coffee is an essential part of the morning ritual for many individuals. It helps you relax and prepare for the day or provides an energy boost you need to get through the morning hours. For some, it’s a solo activity, while others see it as a social event. But when is the best time to drink coffee? Before or after breakfast?
Drinking coffee is very much a morning ritual that leaves many people wondering whether they should have coffee before or after eating. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when drinking your morning java.
Enjoying the Taste
If you are a self-proclaimed coffee snob who enjoys their coffee as a self-care strategy, drinking only the finest brew and heavily invested in this series of stovetop espresso maker reviews such as the ones done at OwlyChoice.com, you should drink your coffee before breakfast. Why? For the simple sake that your palate will get more out of the experience.
If you drink your coffee after eating breakfast, your tastes will be swayed by the food you ate. Instead, wake up, brush your teeth, drink water, and go straight for the coffee. This routine will ensure your palate is suitably cleansed so that you can pick up the subtle notes of your favourite brew.
Coffee is also a palate cleanser, so drinking your java before breakfast will help you enjoy the taste of your food.
Consider Your Stomach
One common argument against drinking coffee before eating is that it can damage the lining of your stomach. The latest research has shown that this effect has largely been disproven.
However, some people experience gastrointestinal distress when drinking coffee. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can enhance those effects. If you’re prone to digestive issues after drinking coffee, then having it after breakfast can help offset this effect.
The Caffeine Buzz
One of the main reasons people drink coffee in the morning is for the jolt of caffeine. This stimulant has been proven to provide temporary physical energy as well as mental clarity.
So what happens if you drink coffee on an empty stomach?
Chances are, you’ll experience that caffeine buzz more quickly when drinking a coffee before eating. However, it will also dissipate faster, as well. Alternatively, drinking it after eating will create a slower, more sustainable caffeine buzz. In this case, it ultimately depends on your preference.
Coffee Dependence Concerns
Coffee shouldn’t be your primary source of energy in the morning. While getting the boost is excellent, it’s not sustainable or healthy to prioritize coffee over a good nutrition in the long-term. If you’re someone who tends to skip breakfast, ensure that you’re getting a glass of water before your coffee to start the day off right.
If you drink coffee to stay awake, shift the focus to nourishing your body for the day, and prioritizing sleep hygiene. Reward yourself with coffee after you address those foundational health concerns.
When Should You Drink Your Coffee?
As you may have guessed, there’s no black and white answer for when you should drink your coffee. The answer to the question, “When is the best time to drink coffee” ultimately depends on your lifestyle, your personal health considerations, and what works for you.
Feel free to experiment with your timing and note how you feel when drinking coffee before or after breakfast to help you decide.
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What I have found particularly good for me is the balance in drinking coffee. I typically drink coffee in the mid-morning, so that my body has the time to enjoy the positive effects of coffee throughout the day, but not too late so that I can sleep very well!