Howdy folks! Sit down and grab a cup of coffee—oh wait, maybe you shouldn’t! Before you take that next sip, let’s gab about something you probably didn’t want to hear. Now, I’m not trying to be a wet blanket, but it’s something worth your attention, and believe me, you’ll want to read to the end before you make up your mind.

I know what you’re thinking—how could a harmless morning Joe, the same elixir we’ve sipped since the dawn of time (or at least since the 1950s), be doing something dastardly like aging us quicker? Now don’t go tossing out your percolator just yet. Hear me out, and I promise I’ll get to the point quicker than you can say “double shot espresso.”

Way back when, mornings at my house always started with the whistle of the tea kettle and the aroma of fresh-ground coffee beans. Bless my Mama’s heart, she brewed the best darn coffee this side of the Mason-Dixon line. Even as kids, we used to dip our biscuits into her strong java when she wasn’t looking. My daddy used to joke, “This coffee’s gonna put hair on your chest!” Little did we know, it was also working overtime to put a wrinkle on our faces.

You see, scientists—those clever whippersnappers—have now come out with studies suggesting that all that beloved java might just be speeding up the aging process. Can you believe it? But why? How? I mean, it’s almost un-American not to have a cup of joe in the morning. I figured it was just as natural as apple pie or a Sunday hymnal.

Well, according to these science-types, coffee is a sneaky little devil packed with caffeine, and that caffeine, my friends, can elevate your cortisol levels. And cortisol is the stress hormone. Stress, as it turns out, is like the meddlesome neighbor who just doesn’t know when to leave. It can trigger inflammation, leading to those uninvited facial lines—crow’s feet, laugh lines, and good ol’ forehead furrows.

Now, there’s some research suggesting coffee might welcomely lower Alzheimer’s risk and bless our ticker with a longer shelf life, but there’s always a flip side to every coin. When you’re constantly jump-starting your day with the black gold, it revs up the body’s stress engine. In long-term use, it’s like driving down a bumpy road that eventually takes a toll.

I know, I know. You’re probably feeling like I just spilled hot coffee all over your new slacks. Believe me, I feel your pain. I go to bed excited about my morning cup—a little coffee, a favorite hymnal in the background, and starting my day with a bit of patriot news. But knowing this, it does give me pause.

Back in the day, if you had a problem, you’d throw it to the Lord. These days, folks are more likely to reach for a latte. But at what cost? As I always say, “Moderation in everything.” That goes even for our sacred morning coffee. Maybe a cup or two is manageable. It’s all these multiple pots of coffee that’ll get you. Grandpa always said, ‘Sin in excess spoils a good life.’

So what’s a good, God-fearing American to do to keep face? Make some adjustments. Maybe enjoy your first cup and think of the rest as a temptation to be resisted. Just think, every time you bypass that second cup, you’re giving time for those prayers to kick in efficiently, a real blessing in disguise.

Moreover, as steadfast believers in the Lord, it’s essential we consider how we treat the temple He’s gifted us. Everything in life unfolds as part of His greater plan, and sometimes that plan includes taking a profound look at the everyday things we so quickly take for granted. Yes, coffee included.

Now, I’m not suggesting you go full John the Baptist and live on locusts and wild honey. Everything in balance, people. Perhaps indulge in a cup of green tea once in a while, or, bless your heart, a nice glass of water. Hydration is the unsung hero in the battle against time.

You know, they say laughter’s the best medicine, and if this article gave a single chuckle while you sip your “reduction in daily consumption” mug, then my job here is done. May the Lord keep you and guide you, and remember, everything in this world should be enjoyed in moderation, including our beloved coffee. So, let’s raise a cup (just one) to aging gracefully—may we look our best while giving our best to others!

God bless, and keep smilin’ because that’s one gift you can share that costs nothing and means everything.