Effect on Body
Coffee can make people more alert, boost their energy and bolster their focus, whether it is consumed swiftly or slowly. Consuming coffee quickly may increase its intensity and alertness, but it could also lead to an uncomfortable feeling of jitteriness. On the other hand, taking coffee slowly may provide the same benefits, but with a less intense, easier-to-manage reaction.
The key difference between drinking coffee fast or slow involves how it affects the body. Fast drinking can cause an increase in levels of cortisol, which is a stress hormone. As a result, the body enters a fight-or-flight response and this can cause feelings of anxiety or make it harder to focus.
In contrast, taking coffee slowly so that it is consumed over the course of at least a few minutes can be a more calming experience. It can effectively boost alertness, energy, and focus without the intensity of drinking it fast. According to a study from the University of Bristol, drinking coffee slowly can reduce the amount of cortisol that is released into the body and its associated side effects.
Effect on Quality of Taste
When it comes to the quality of the taste, many people prefer to consume coffee slowly. This allows them to appreciate the nuances and complexities in the flavour. It also makes it possible to identify the different notes, from the fruity and floral to the deeper and more woody flavours.
According to the World Coffee Research organization, “Slowly brewing and drinking coffee gives opportunities to experience the beverage in its entirety and provide a deeper understanding”. They explain the complexities and notes in coffee can be appreciated more when sipping it slowly.
Slow drinking can also improve the way the coffee hits your tongue and reacts with the tastebuds. This includes being able to distinguish the clarity or body of the coffee that determines how it feels against your tongue.
Psychological Benefits of Drinking Coffee Slow
Besides the physical effects, there are psychological reasons why taking coffee slow may be beneficial. In our modern, busy lives, it can be a challenge to take the time to focus on something. But taking the moments to enjoy a cup of coffee can be a great way to “reset” the focus of your day.
The American Psychological Association suggest “mindful drinking” as a way to reset your focus. This entails sitting down and considering how the coffee looks and smells, before taking a slow, mindful sip. Even if it’s for a few minutes, this can help to refocus the body on what is important.
Long-Term Health Implications
When it comes to deciding whether it is better to drink coffee slow or fast, it is also worthwhile to consider long-term health implications.
Coffee has been linked to a number of health benefits including improved mental acuity, increased alertness and lower risks of heart disease and some types of cancer. However, it can also have negative effects such as spike in blood pressure, heart palpitations or insomnia when consumed to excess.
Drinking coffee slowly rather than consuming it in larger amounts quickly may help to mitigate the risks associated with taking too much coffee. It would be beneficial to consult a doctor for advice about moderate and safe levels of caffeine intake.
Difficulties of Slowing Down
Although there are definite advantages to taking coffee slowly, it may not always be easy to do. People in fast-paced, demanding environments might feel they do not have the time or luxury to slow down and enjoy it. This could lead to taking sips so quickly that they don’t get to experience the complexity of the flavours or their potential alertness benefits.
In some scenarios it also may not be possible to take your time. For instance, if you are attending a meeting and need to be alert, drinking your coffee swiftly might be a more effective option.
Conclusion
Overall, it comes down to the individual and what works best for them in a given scenario. If you are looking to experience the complexity of flavours and savour the experience, drinking coffee slowly is likely to be more effective. Alternatively, if a burst of alertness and energy is required, then drinking it quickly may provide the most benefit. Either way, be mindful of the health implications of caffeine intake and consult a doctor with any questions.
