New research reveals what coffee really does to your gut—and it’s surprising
Is coffee actually good for you? Some experts tout its health benefits , such as lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. At the same time, excessive caffeine consumption has been linked to various health conditions, such as anxiety, headaches, faster heart rate, and in some cases, lower bone density in women . Although coffee is widely believed to improve digestion and mood…
Recent research conducted by University College Cork’s APC Microbiome Ireland has uncovered surprising insights into the impact of coffee on the human gut. Contrary to popular belief, the study found that coffee can positively influence gut health and mental well-being. The researchers examined 31 regular coffee drinkers and 31 non-coffee drinkers, all aged between 30 and 50, for a period of two weeks.
During this time, they monitored their caffeine intake, diet, and gut microbial composition through stool and urine samples. When the coffee drinkers abstained from coffee, researchers observed changes in their gut microbes. Upon reintroducing coffee, they discovered that both groups experienced a decrease in stress, depression, and impulsivity.
This suggests that coffee's benefits extend beyond just caffeine. Furthermore, the researchers noted increases in specific gut bacteria, such as Cryptobacterium curtum, Eggerthella sp., and Firmicutes, which are believed to contribute to improved gut health. The findings were published in the journal Nature Communications.
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