Coffee’s most famous – and sought-after property – is its ability to make us feel more awake. It does that by triggering our body’s fight or flight mode and releasing cortisol and adrenaline, according to holistic nutritionist and health coach Cheryl Telfer. She suggests that constant coffee drinking can, in the long-term, lead to us feeling more tired due to “raised blood pressure, hormone imbalances, anxiety, stress and disrupted sleep.”

And, of course, coffee can be habit-forming. That’s not a problem in and of itself – coffee is a fantastic gut health drink, and a couple of daily cups can encourage the growth of helpful bacteria. But we’re talking about relying on coffee to get out of bed in the morning, something that certified health education specialist Brielle Merchant warns against.

“When we consume caffeine, it halts the production of adenosine – a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect and can help promote sleepiness. Over time, our brains may produce more adenosine receptors in response to this,” registered nutritionist Clarissa Lenherr previously told Strong Women. “And the more receptors we have, the more caffeine we need to get the same alert, energised feeling. Over time this increased need for caffeine can seem like an addiction.”

But coffee isn’t addictive in and of itself; we form attachments to the way coffee can make us feel. As well as halting adenosine, caffeine causes us to produce more dopamine – a chemical that helps us feel motivated, awake and alert.

Studies suggest that up to three cups a day can boast big health benefits. The NHS warns that over four cups of coffee may start to increase your blood pressure.

Trying to cut down on coffee? These 3 lower-caffeine alternatives might improve your energy and sleep