When is the best time to drink coffee?

The best time to drink coffee is 90 to 120 minutes after waking on most days. 1

1. Delaying caffeine: Waiting may help avoid a pronounced afternoon energy crash and reduce the urge to reach for more caffeine later. 2 3
2. Afternoon cutoff: Limit or avoid afternoon caffeine; ideally, have your last caffeine by 2 or 3 p.m. 4
3. Sleep disruption: Caffeine consumed within 8 to 12 hours of bedtime can impair sleep quality and architecture—even if you still fall asleep. 5
4. Before morning exercise: If you need caffeine for an intense workout soon after waking, take it shortly beforehand, but expect it may make early-afternoon fatigue more pronounced. 6