American biologist Brian Johnson has reconsidered his decision to quit coffee after a new scientific study revealed potential benefits of drinking it at certain times of the day.
Johnson, who is 48 years old, had stopped drinking coffee several years ago as part of his efforts to improve his health and slow down aging. However, a study from Tulane University in Louisiana made him rethink his stance on caffeine. The study showed that drinking coffee reduces the risk of death by 16% and the risk of cardiovascular disease by 31% compared to people who do not drink it.
Nevertheless, the study emphasizes that the timing of coffee consumption plays a key role in achieving these benefits. Data from 40,725 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018 showed that drinking coffee only in the morning was associated with a significantly greater reduction in mortality risk, whereas drinking it throughout the day did not have the same effect.
"When you use caffeine correctly, you can turn it into a factor that helps extend life," said Johnson. He also recently revealed that spicy pepper might be another secret to longevity.
"Our data indicates that the benefit depends not only on the amount or consumption itself, but also on the time of day you drink coffee," he added. He warned that consuming caffeine in the afternoon or evening could lead to sleep and hormonal disturbances, which could negate the associated health benefits.
In a video posted in response to the study, Johnson warned that drinking coffee late at night to stay awake could have the opposite effect. "A cup of coffee at 3 p.m. means half of it will remain in your body until 9 p.m., which can affect sleep quality," he explained.
Johnson emphasized that good sleep is the most important element for human health and longevity. He pointed out that those who drink coffee in the morning without affecting their sleep can benefit from caffeine's health benefits, such as improving metabolism, enhancing blood vessel function, and facilitating blood flow.
He also clarified that coffee contains caffeine and polyphenols—plant compounds that act as antioxidants, helping to reduce inflammation and protect brain cells. Coffee contains over 100 types of polyphenols, which in turn stimulate the process of autophagy, a natural mechanism for removing damaged cells from the body.
"To get the most out of coffee, drink it early in the morning and avoid drinking it in the afternoon or with sugar, as that could cancel out its benefits," Johnson concluded.
