While the adage “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” emphasizes the health benefits of this fruit, it’s worth noting that an apple can also play a role in keeping drowsiness at bay. According to insights from Tom’s Guide, apples contribute to an energy boost by providing calories, sugar, and carbohydrates, which gradually release energy and help in waking up.
In comparison, coffee, a well-known source of caffeine, acts more swiftly in enhancing alertness. Caffeine achieves this by blocking adenosine, a neurotransmitter associated with inducing sleepiness, and by increasing the levels of other neurotransmitters like dopamine, which regulate energy levels.
However, it’s essential to exercise caution with excessive coffee consumption, as it can lead to adverse effects such as disrupted sleep, an upset stomach, dehydration, anxiety, and restlessness, as noted by the National Library of Medicine (NLM). On the other hand, apples, being rich in natural sugar (fructose), offer a gradual and sustained energy release, avoiding the sudden burst associated with coffee. This provides a more stable form of energy without the risk of inducing anxiety or disrupting sleep.
Moreover, apples come with additional health benefits, as highlighted by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. They are rich in polyphenols, vitamin C, and both soluble and insoluble fiber, contributing to overall well-being.
Nutritionist Karine Patel suggests a balanced approach, proposing that to maximize the energizing benefits, one could start the day with an apple and enjoy a cup of coffee approximately 90 minutes later. This combination harnesses the steady energy release from the apple and the more immediate effects of coffee, ensuring a well-rounded and sustained wakefulness throughout the morning.