Oddy Knocky Coffee’s spokesperson told Express UK that drinking coffee immediately after waking may interfere with the body’s natural rhythms. The body produces adenosine, which causes drowsiness, and cortisol, a stress hormone. These chemicals affect caffeine’s effectiveness.
Adenosine levels are low in the morning and rise throughout the day, while cortisol peaks in the morning. Consuming coffee right away can disrupt these processes, leading to reduced focus and productivity.
Sleep expert Dr. Deborah Lee from Get Laid Beds recommends waiting until 10 am or at least 45 minutes after waking for your first coffee. Cortisol peaks within 30-45 minutes of waking, and drinking coffee too early can lead to reduced effectiveness over time.
Dr. Lee suggests that if you wake at 7 am, having coffee between 10 am and 12 pm will provide the most benefits. Drinking coffee too soon can lead to caffeine resistance and elevated cortisol levels, reducing its effectiveness.
She also advises stopping coffee consumption six to eight hours before bedtime to avoid disrupting sleep. For a warm drink without caffeine, try herbal teas or decaf options.