Coffee Supports Growth Of Beneficial Gut Bacteria

A recent study published in Nature Microbiology reveals a new benefit of coffee—it supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, Food & Wine reported.

The study's results suggest that drinking coffee can positively impact gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria—an exciting win for coffee enthusiasts.

In the study, researchers analyzed stool samples from 22,867 participants to examine the impact of coffee on gut bacteria.

They categorized participants into three groups: the “never” group (those who drink fewer than three cups per month), “moderate” coffee drinkers (those who consume at least three cups per month but fewer than three cups per day), and “heavy” coffee drinkers (those who drink three or more cups per day).

The researchers found that coffee drinkers had high levels of a specific bacterial strain, L. asaccharolyticus. The results suggest that drinking coffee can positively impact gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria—an exciting win for coffee enthusiasts.

“It turns out that the microbiome in the gut is probably way more important than we ever expected,” said Michael Caplan, M.D., clinical professor at the University of Chicago and chief scientific officer at Endeavor Health.

A healthy gut can help prevent traveler’s diarrhea and antibiotic-induced diarrhea and may even play a role in managing obesity, heart disease, and chemotherapy outcomes.

The gut also houses the majority of the body's immune cells, making it vital to protect and maintain its strength. Additionally, a healthy gut supports digestion, reduces inflammation, and even influences mental well-being.

Dr. Caplan pointed out that it’s not just the caffeine in coffee that promotes beneficial bacteria. Even decaffeinated coffee has positive effects on gut health.

The key contributors are likely polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid and quinic acid, which help stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Research suggests that polyphenols act as prebiotics, feeding and encouraging the growth of good bacteria in the digestive system.