Have you ever wondered when that first sip of coffee will start to kick in and give you the energy boost you so desperately need? Well, it turns out there are a few ways you can make that caffeine hit even more potent and feel the effects faster. Let’s explore some of these methods and see what they entail.
How long does it take for caffeine to kick in?
Before we delve into the ways to amplify your caffeine intake, let’s first understand how long it typically takes for caffeine to take effect. According to Brooklyn-based dietitian Maddie Pasquariello, caffeine is generally absorbed into our systems within 45 minutes to an hour. However, concentrations increase significantly after just 20 minutes, with equilibrium being achieved between 15 and 20 minutes. This is why some people suggest drinking a cup of coffee before taking a power nap. It’s during this time range that caffeine reaches its peak levels in our bodies.
Pasquariello does mention that various factors can influence these results, such as sample size and other considerations. However, as a general marker, she suggests that around the 30 minute mark after finishing your cup of coffee is when you can expect caffeine levels to reach their peak.
Click here to get If you’re ready to start burning
4 ways to make coffee (and its caffeine content) kick in faster
If you’re looking to get a stronger caffeine hit without increasing your usual intake, there are a few methods you can try. Let’s take a look:
1. Drink coffee on an empty stomach
One of the most effective ways to experience a more potent caffeine rush is by drinking your coffee on an empty stomach. According to Pasquariello, if your body responds well to caffeine, you’ll want to avoid pairing it with food. Of course, we don’t advocate skipping meals, but if you’re not hungry in the morning or prefer to wait until later for breakfast, drinking a cup or so of coffee on an empty stomach shouldn’t have any major downsides. Just be cautious of drinking multiple cups in a row before eating, as this can have negative effects.
2. Take your coffee black
In addition to enjoying your coffee without food, you may also want to switch up your usual coffee concoctions and opt for pure black coffee or espresso. By eliminating milk or other additives, you’ll be consuming coffee in its purest form, allowing the caffeine to have a stronger impact.
3. Opt for stronger brews
If you’re ordering coffee at a café or making it at home, consider choosing a stronger brew. Cold brew coffee, for example, is typically brewed more strongly than drip coffee or espresso. By opting for a large glass of cold brew, you’ll be able to enjoy a greater caffeine boost than you would from less robust alternatives.
4. Drink coffee before taking a power nap
As mentioned earlier, sipping on your preferred coffee before taking a 15 to 20 minute power nap can leave you feeling more energized and alert when you wake up. While you may not be able to incorporate this hack into your daily routine, keep it in mind for those times when you need a quick energy boost.
A few caveats
It’s important to note that the methods mentioned above are not suitable for everyone. Those who don’t tolerate caffeine well, experience undesired side effects, or have underlying health conditions should exercise caution. Drinking caffeine on an empty stomach can make some individuals feel jittery or anxious, as food helps slow down the absorption of caffeine into the bloodstream. If you fall into this category, it’s best to pair your coffee with a meal or snack, or even limit your intake altogether.
It’s also worth considering the impact of caffeine on your cortisol levels. Cortisol is a stress hormone that tends to be at its peak in the morning, around 30 minutes after waking up. Consuming caffeine during this time can further increase cortisol levels, so it may be beneficial to wait until later in the morning to start consuming caffeine. Additionally, be mindful of not drinking coffee too late in the day, as it can interfere with your sleep.
If you’ve had a restless night or struggle with insomnia, be cautious about consuming too much caffeine. Research suggests that excessive caffeine intake can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of anxiety and restlessness. Similarly, if you have gastrointestinal issues like IBS or leaky gut, be aware that caffeine, especially in excess, can be aggravating.
In conclusion, if you’re looking to enhance your coffee experience and get a stronger caffeine kick, these methods can help. Just remember to listen to your body and adjust accordingly. So go ahead, savor your cup of coffee and enjoy the energy boost it provides!