I used to smash coffees in the morning, until I realised it was my main anxiety driver and I needed to cut coffee out for good. I went through some serious caffeine withdrawals during this process, but it was worth it. Many of us rely on that first cup of coffee to jumpstart our day, but what if this daily ritual is actually doing more harm than good to our bodies? Could coffee be increasing cortisol levels in a way that affects our health in the long term? Let's find out.
The science behind coffee and cortisol
Caffeine is the active ingredient in coffee that delivers the beloved boost of energy and alertness. It also impacts cortisol levels, a hormone released by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Cortisol plays a key role in the body's fight-or-flight response, regulating blood sugar levels, metabolism, and even the immune system.
According to a wellness dietitian, Knubian Gatlin, caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, helping to keep us awake and alert. But it doesn’t stop there. Research shows that caffeine can also stimulate the production of cortisol, particularly when consumed shortly after waking up.
Cortisol levels naturally peak upon waking, providing your body with a burst of energy to get moving. Drinking coffee immediately after waking up can overload the system. Caffeine spikes cortisol levels even further, leading to potential hormonal imbalances and a sense of fatigue later in the day.
The problem with repeatedly stimulating cortisol is that, over time, your body may adapt and produce less of it naturally. This leaves you reliant on caffeine to feel awake, which can create a cycle of dependency, eventually lowering your body’s resilience to stress and impacting your overall energy levels. Not good.
Is boosting cortisol healthy?
Raising cortisol in response to stress is a natural and necessary part of the body's defense system. Consistently boosting cortisol levels with substances like coffee may have negative health implications. High cortisol over long periods is linked to a number of adverse health effects, including:
- Increased anxiety: Chronically elevated cortisol can make the body more susceptible to stress and anxiety.
- Sleep disturbances: Excess cortisol can interfere with the body’s ability to fall asleep, making it harder to get restful, restorative sleep.
- Weight gain: Cortisol is involved in fat storage, and persistently high levels can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
Caffeine also acts as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. Since even mild dehydration can impact energy levels, it’s important to stay hydrated, particularly if you’re drinking coffee first thing in the morning.
Is there a better way to start the day?
What can you do to avoid overstimulating cortisol in the morning? The answer might lie in coffee substitutes that don’t carry the same risks.
Mushroom coffee (a mushroom drink containing functional mushrooms like reishi, lion's mane and cordyceps) is a fantastic option for those seeking a smoother, more balanced way to start the day. With natural ingredients that support cognitive function and energy levels without the jitters or cortisol spikes, mushroom drinks offers a healthier substitute to traditional coffee. Instead of relying on caffeine to kickstart your day, mushroom coffee helps promote focus and clarity, providing a natural, organic boost to keep you energised without the crash or stress.
As research suggests, waiting an hour or two after waking to drink coffee and opting for a more balanced energy solution like mushroom coffee might help you avoid the negative impacts of excessive cortisol. By nourishing your body with the right nutrients, you can set the tone for a more productive, balanced day.
Let's wrap this up mate
Drinking coffee first thing in the morning may be a popular ritual, but the science suggests it could be inadvertently increasing cortisol levels, contributing to stress and energy imbalances. If you're looking for a healthier way to fuel your morning, consider making the switch to a healthy coffee substitute like mushroom coffee. By choosing a balanced approach to morning energy, you'll support your body's natural rhythms and feel more grounded throughout the day.
