Drinking coffee in the morning helps the body wake up and improves concentration.
However, the habit of drinking coffee in the morning is often misunderstood in relation to the stress hormone cortisol. The issue is not with the coffee itself, but with how it is consumed, according to the Hindustan Times .
Cortisol naturally increases in the morning
Dr. Alok Chopra, a cardiologist at Aashlok Hospital (India), explains that the body naturally increases cortisol levels upon waking. This is a normal physiological response that helps people stay alert, focused, and ready for the day.
Cortisol follows a circadian rhythm called the wake response. This hormone peaks in the morning and gradually decreases throughout the day. The body already produces cortisol naturally, so coffee is not the cause of this sudden spike in the hormone.
Mr. Chopra asserted that the claim that coffee produces cortisol is inaccurate. The body already has mechanisms to regulate this hormone.
You shouldn't drink coffee on an empty stomach. Photo: Adobe Stock
The mistake of drinking coffee on an empty stomach
The problem arises when drinking coffee immediately after waking up without eating anything. At this time, caffeine affects cortisol levels, which are already high, but the body has not yet received any energy.
This condition leads to higher-than-necessary cortisol levels. The body is prone to tremors, anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and blood sugar fluctuations. By the end of the day, a feeling of being both alert and tired may occur.
Mr. Chopra stated that the lack of energy intake causes the body to react negatively to caffeine. This is the main reason for the unpleasant symptoms experienced after drinking coffee.
Women are more sensitive to stress hormones
Mr. Chopra emphasized that women are more clearly affected by cortisol fluctuations. Repeated changes in this hormone when the body is deficient in nutrients can reduce energy, affect mood, and cause hormonal imbalances over time.
Women's bodies react strongly to stress hormones, so they need to control their coffee drinking habits more carefully.
Combine coffee with nutrition to stabilize your body
Mr. Chopra recommends drinking coffee with food rather than on an empty stomach.
Eating a balanced diet helps to counteract the stimulating effects of caffeine and maintain stable energy levels.