Coffee consumption is associated with protection from several chronic diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disease. Whereas some of the beneficial effects of coffee may stem from its ability to induce autophagy, other evidence points to the benefits of caffeine, which, when consumed early in the morning – resets the body's internal clocks and provides a mental boost that helps us start the day and may even protect telomeres. But the long half-life of caffeine can reduce sleep quality, fueling a vicious cycle of poor sleep, daytime grogginess, and increased caffeine consumption. 

This Aliquot segment features Dr. Guido Kroemer, an expert in immunology, cancer biology, aging, and autophagy; Dr. Satchin Panda, an expert in circadian rhythm research; Dr. Matthew Walker, a professor of neuroscience and psychology; Dr. Elissa Epel, an expert in telomere biology; and Dr. Rhonda Patrick (in an interview with Mike Maser).