Experts: When You Drink Coffee Can Affect Sleep and Well-Being
The timing of coffee consumption can significantly change its effects on the body — at the wrong time it may disrupt sleep, increase anxiety and cause other unpleasant sensations. Experts advise avoiding coffee at least eight hours before bedtime.
The time of day when coffee is consumed can significantly affect alertness, sleep quality and overall well-being. If consumed at an inappropriate time, the drink may contribute to anxiety, nervousness and other unpleasant sensations, experts say.
Caffeine's effects can last for several hours or even longer, which is why most people are advised to avoid coffee about eight hours before going to bed. Some individuals may still feel its impact the next day, and the drink can make it harder to fall asleep and reduce sleep quality.
Coffee improves alertness, concentration and mood, but this effect is not long-lasting. Many people experience a sudden energy drop four to six hours after a cup. Therefore, experts do not recommend relying on coffee to stay awake all night before an exam or important work — although it helps keep a person awake, sleep deprivation can later harm performance.
Research suggests that coffee may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of insulin resistance, but this effect is thought to be stronger when coffee is drunk in the morning rather than later in the day.
When to Be Careful
Experts warn that people who drink coffee almost daily should not quit abruptly. Even a one-day break can cause headaches for some. Meanwhile, those who do not drink coffee regularly may sometimes experience severe headaches after just one cup.
People unaccustomed to caffeine should not try it for the first time before important meetings, such as a job interview or presentation. Caffeine can cause anxiety, nervousness, trembling hands and a rapid heartbeat in some individuals, which may make it harder to feel confident.
Possible interactions with medications should also be considered. Caffeine can affect heart rhythm in people prone to rhythm disorders and raise blood pressure.
Finally, many people feel the need to use the bathroom shortly after drinking coffee. If that is not possible in the near future, experts suggest postponing the cup of coffee for later.
