Aurelio Rojas, cardiologist, on drinking coffee in the morning: "It reduces the risk of death, but if you drink it all day..."

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, but for years it has sparked debate about its impact on health. For a long time, it has been thought that its consumption could increase the risk of heart problems, primarily due to the stimulating action of caffeine. Cardiologist Aurelio Rojas spoke about its effects on cardiovascular health to dispel any doubts about drinking it every morning.

The specialist addressed this topic on social media, based on a recent study published in the European Heart Journal. According to the research, the impact of coffee on the body varies depending on the time of day it is consumed.

What is the best time to drink coffee?

Coffee, in its most natural form, is rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds that can promote cardiovascular health. Moderate consumption has been linked to lower LDL cholesterol and protection against chronic diseases. The specialist assures that it has "beneficial effects on the heart, such as reducing the risk of diabetes, improving weight loss, and improving cardiovascular health thanks to its powerful antioxidant effect."

But does the time of day matter? According to Rojas, “drinking coffee only in the morning reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by up to 31% and the risk of premature death by 17%. But if you drink it all day long… the benefits disappear.” This data is based on an analysis of more than 40,000 people over 20 years, which showed a relationship between coffee consumption and reduced mortality.

The main reason for this difference lies in the circadian rhythm . Drinking coffee in the afternoon or evening can interfere with the production of melatonin and cortisol , key hormones in regulating sleep and stress. As the cardiologist explains, "it seems that drinking coffee in the afternoon alters our circadian rhythm and the secretion of hormones that regulate our rest," which can increase stress levels and affect cardiovascular health.

Beyond the time of consumption, the choice of coffee is also relevant. Rojas emphasizes that it is essential to opt for a naturally roasted coffee, avoiding varieties such as torrefacto . The latter, marketed in countries such as Spain, Mexico, and Portugal, includes sugar in its roasting process, which generates substances such as acrylamide . This chemical, according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), has been classified as "genotoxic and carcinogenic," which has led the European Union to establish strict regulations on its presence in foods.

Excessive consumption of acrylamide has been linked to adverse effects on the nervous system, prenatal development, and the risk of genetic mutations. Therefore, health authorities recommend opting for naturally roasted coffee, which better preserves its properties without the risks associated with roasting.