Importance
Why does the time of day matter?
We have an internal clock called the circadian rhythm.
This rhythm dictates all the mechanisms in our bodies — from hormone release and turning on and off the metabolism, to when our bodies are primed for sex.
At certain times during this rhythm, we should avoid coffee. And at other times, we can maximize the benefits of coffee.
The circadian rhythm controls a part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN is responsible for releasing cortisol — our stress hormone.
We have a natural spike in cortisol about an hour after we wake up — so for most people, around 8–9am. (From when we wake up, our cortisol levels continue rising for about an hour.)
This hormone, while often vilified, is normal and beneficial.
However, when we compound our natural cortisol spikes with a cup of coffee, it can dramatically increase our stress response, and can also cause our bodies to be immune to the impact of the caffeine. In the long term, this increases our caffeine tolerance, meaning we’ll need more and more in order to get a buzz.
Geoffrey James, writer for Inc, explains:
“Because cortisol levels start rising the moment you get out of bed, if you drink your first cup of coffee at breakfast or while commuting, you’re not getting the full benefit and may be creating unnecessary stress.
Implementation
We want to avoid consuming caffeine during this spike, and if we want to optimally maximize the benefits, we want to aim to consume the coffee just after the spike.
So, what does this translate to? Assuming you wake up at about 7am, you’ll want to drink caffeine after 8am.
Pay attention to the time you wake up, and make note of what time it will be one hour later.
Before You Go
The Momentum Membership structure will be changing from January 31st.
As the membership is still in beta, I want to get as many people involved as possible so I can make adjustments and revisions quickly to ensure I am providing a lot of value.
I want to support you on your health journey as best I can, so would love it if you joined, tried everything out, and then let me know what you think.
The new structure will look like this:
Premium newsletter $6/month
Membership $9/month
One on one coaching with membership access $100/month
The single membership option will include access to all the membership content plus full access to our exclusive membership community. Here’s a sneak peek into the community:
Our new pathway for February is weight loss. A new pathway will be added each month.
I’ll send a reminder of the change and a sign-up link in next week’s newsletter. See you there!
- Ashley
This is great advice! I for one usually try to intermittant fast with some coffee as I woke up, but out of habit more than actual buzz. Will give this a try and see what the effects are.