Your morning beverage selection can set the stage for productivity or be an energy-draining sugar rush that leaves you fatigued, irritable and lethargic by afternoon. Furthermore, whether it be an indulgent frappuccino or antioxidant-packed green smoothie packed with vegetables and fruits; how you drink first thing will determine whether your body can absorb and process nutrients from other food.

Are You Wondering If Coffee Is Healthy to Drink in the Morning? A quick Google search reveals that, overall, a moderate amount of coffee should be safe for most individuals; however, those sensitive to caffeine should limit their daily caffeine consumption to no more than 400 mg (roughly four or five 8-ounce cups of brewed coffee) daily. For guidance regarding what amount is safe for your body speak with a registered dietitian or doctor first.

Caffeine has long been used as a stimulant, helping people remain awake and relieve drowsiness. Coffee also contains beneficial compounds which may enhance brain function, prevent heart disease and cancer risk reduction and lower Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s risk as well as protect against Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. Furthermore, the fatty acids contained in coffee may protect against Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases.

Even with all its health benefits, many people prefer other beverages over coffee for various reasons, including digestive discomfort or concerns that it will disrupt sleep patterns. According to a new study, timing could have an impact on your overall health and longevity.

Researchers from Tulane University conducted an in-depth examination of 40,725 adults over a decade to investigate their coffee drinking habits and mortality risk. After controlling for age, gender, and other factors, morning coffee drinkers had significantly lower mortality risk compared to all day or none at all consumers; specifically morning drinkers were 31% less likely to die of heart disease and 16% lower in overall mortality risk.

Researchers remain uncertain as to why coffee drinking impacts mortality; they hypothesize it could be related to caffeine’s effect on melatonin and other hormones in your body, such as those related to sleep and immunity. Prof Thomas Luscher of Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals in London notes in an accompanying editorial that coffee seems to suppress melatonin production later in the evening, possibly explaining why many all-day coffee drinkers sleep poorly.

If you’re searching for a healthier morning beverage option, why not give turmeric lattes or herbal blends like ginseng with rooibos or green tea a try instead of your standard coffee mug? Just remember to limit sugary creamers and additives while staying hydrated throughout your day by drinking plenty of water!