What is the 2 hour coffee rule?
Quick answer: The 2 hour coffee rule suggests waiting at least two hours after waking up before drinking your first cup of coffee. This guideline aligns with the body’s cortisol levels, aiming to optimize both the effects of caffeine and the body’s natural wakefulness cycle. The caffeine in coffee affects your levels of adenosine and melatonin, two key players in making you sleepy. Because of this, drinking coffee late at night likely isn’t a good idea. In fact, it may be beneficial to try to avoid consuming caffeine within 6 hours of bedtime.Waiting about 90 minutes after waking allows your cortisol and adenosine rhythms to settle, helping caffeine work more effectively. Start your morning with hydration, natural light, and light movement to activate your system. Then enjoy your coffee when it will actually help.Spikes Cortisol (Stress Hormone) – Drinking coffee first thing in the morning raises cortisol levels, increasing stress and affecting metabolism. Can Lead to Stomach Lining Damage – Over time, excessive acid production can harm the stomach lining, leading to gastritis or ulcers.