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Drinking a daily cup of coffee, whether caffeinated or decaffeinated, may significantly alter the gut microbiome, leading to reduced stress levels, lower impulsivity, and improved emotional wellbeing
A study published in Nature Communications found that coffee acts as a powerful dietary signal for gut bacteria, triggering biological pathways that may influence brain function and mental health.
Lead investigator Professor John Cryan, chair of anatomy and neuroscience at University College Cork, said coffee should no longer be viewed solely as a central nervous system stimulant.
Beyond caffeine, coffee is rich in naturally occurring polyphenols and plant fibres, which provide nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the human gut.
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Image via Pixabay/PexelsTo investigate the connection between the digestive system and the brain, known as the microbiota–gut–brain axis, researchers studied 31 regular coffee drinkers and 31 non-coffee drinkers
Analysis of stool samples showed that regular coffee drinkers had distinct gut bacterial profiles, including higher levels of Eggerthella and Cryptobacterium curtum, bacteria associated with the metabolism of plant compounds and metabolic health.
Following the initial assessments, the coffee drinkers underwent a strict two-week washout period during which they abstained from coffee completely. They were then randomly assigned to drink either caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee daily for 20 days.
Both groups reported lower levels of perceived stress, impulsivity, and depressive symptoms after coffee was reintroduced.
Despite these shared benefits, caffeine appeared to produce different effects between the two groups
Participants who drank caffeinated coffee reported lower anxiety levels and improved sustained attention, while also showing better blood pressure regulation.
Meanwhile, those who consumed decaffeinated coffee experienced greater improvements in sleep quality, physical activity, and certain memory functions, suggesting that components other than caffeine, such as melanoidins, may also contribute to cognitive health.
While the findings add to growing evidence supporting the gut-brain connection, the researchers noted that the study involved just 62 healthy adults. They said larger clinical trials are required to confirm the results before any changes to dietary guidelines can be considered.
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Image via sandi.photography/PexelsThese findings could have interesting implications for Malaysia, a country with a rich coffee culture built on traditional kopitiam brews and modern espresso bars
While many local consumers may view decaf as an inferior alternative, the study suggests that decaffeinated coffee could offer its own health benefits without the potential sleep disruption associated with caffeine.
The findings also add to a growing body of global research on coffee, including a study linking filtered coffee consumption to slower biological ageing, suggesting that coffee type and composition may influence its long-term health effects.
The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a healthcare professional regarding the reader's own medical care.
