Coffee is considered one of today’s popular beverages, consumed by millions of people every day. However, scientific research on the timing of coffee consumption and its effects on health shows that coffee is not a drink that can be consumed at any hour. In this article, we will provide information on scientific research related to coffee consumption and the appropriate hours.
Biological Clock and Cortisol Hormone
Scientists point out that the human body has a biological clock known as the circadian rhythm. This clock regulates many processes in our body, including how sleepy we are during the day. The secretion of a hormone called cortisol is also related to the circadian rhythm. Cortisol is also known as the stress hormone, as it is released in the body’s “fight or flight” states.
Cortisol levels peak between 08:00 and 09:00 in the morning and are associated with the body’s alertness. Consuming coffee during this time can reduce the effect of cortisol, causing harm to the body.
The Most Suitable Hours for Drinking Coffee
The most suitable hours for coffee consumption are when cortisol levels are low. According to scientists, cortisol peaks at different times of the day:
- Between 12:00 and 13:00 in the afternoon
- Between 17:30 and 18:30 in the evening
Therefore, the most suitable hours for drinking coffee are outside these cortisol peak times.
Caution with Coffee and Paracetamol Use
One of the biggest mistakes made during coffee consumption is taking it together with medications containing paracetamol. According to a study by Washington University, when paracetamol reaches the liver, it causes the production of some toxic substances. When taken with coffee, the secretion of these toxins increases threefold.
Paracetamol is the active ingredient in many medications, such as Tylenol, Tylohot, Gripin, and Vermidon, and excessive use can lead to death. Therefore, it is important to avoid using paracetamol-containing medications while consuming coffee.
The Role of Coffee in Turkish Culture and Consumption Recommendations
In Turkish culture, coffee is not just a beverage but also a part of social interaction and sharing. Coffee, especially Turkish coffee, is consumed to wake up in the mornings, to relieve post-meal bloating, or to refresh after long walks. Some points to consider when consuming Turkish coffee are:
- Consider your cortisol levels and pay attention to the appropriate hours mentioned above when planning to drink coffee.
- When preparing Turkish coffee, pay attention to the ratio of coffee and water. The ideal ratio is 1-1.5 teaspoons of coffee and 60-75 ml of water per cup.
- When consuming coffee, take care to drink it slowly and enjoyably to preserve its foam and aroma.
- Limit your coffee consumption to no more than 3-4 cups per day and keep your caffeine intake under control.
Conclusion
Coffee is a delicious and popular beverage consumed by millions of people worldwide. However, scientific research on the timing of coffee consumption and its effects on health shows that it is not appropriate to drink coffee at any hour. By considering cortisol levels and appropriate hours, coffee consumption can be made into a healthier and more enjoyable experience. Additionally, it is important not to take paracetamol-containing medications while consuming coffee to avoid potential health risks. Coffee has a valuable place in Turkish culture as a part of social interaction and sharing, and it is essential to pay attention to health while continuing this tradition.
