According to a new study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, it’s a myth that a cup of coffee is needed to make your brain more alert in the morning. The study of 379 people showed regular coffee drinkers needed a hit of caffeine to bring them up to the same level of alertness as non-coffee drinkers. Researchers deprived each person of coffee for 16 hours before giving the participants either caffeine or a placebo. Each person then underwent a series of tasks to measure their attentiveness, memory and vigilance. We don’t gain any advantage from consuming caffeine.

Does coffee really wake you up?
Dr. Daniel Thomas, DO, MS
Dr. Thomas is a highly regarded and sought-after physician whose medical expertise has been shaped by extensive education and refined over 40 years of clinical practice. His work centers on unlocking the science of longevity enhancement and helping people with cancer find a clearer path toward resolution. His strength lies in his scientific curiosity, creative and analytical thinking, and practical application of cutting-edge research. Despite the demands of a busy medical practice, Dr. Thomas devotes 20–30 hours a week outside the office to reviewing the latest scientific literature and consulting with leading scientists to identify promising treatments. He shares his evidence-based insights at ThomasHealthBlog.com and in his forthcoming book, “Healthier After 50: A Smarter Path to Aging Well,” which will distill decades of clinical wisdom into a practical guide for living healthier, happier, and longer. Dr. Thomas can be reached at info@healthyandstrong.com.