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John Cryan, neuroscientist: “Coffee, whether caffeinated or decaffeinated, can influence health in distinct but complementary ways”
TheCoolist • • health
Key Points:
- Researchers at University College Cork studied 62 participants, including regular coffee drinkers and non-drinkers, to examine coffee's effects on the gut microbiome and mental health beyond caffeine content.
- Two weeks without coffee led to significant changes in gut microbiome metabolites among regular drinkers, with an increase in Firmicutes bacteria linked to positive emotions in women.
- Reintroducing coffee, whether caffeinated or decaf, reduced stress, depression, and impulsivity, but decaf improved memory while caffeinated coffee enhanced attention and reduced anxiety.
- The study suggests coffee influences health through complex interactions with gut microbes and its various compounds, not just caffeine, offering reassurance to those who prefer decaf for health reasons.
- Limitations include the small sample size and short-term nature of the study, plus potential bias due to sponsorship by a coffee industry-linked organization; individuals sensitive to caffeine should consult healthcare providers.
