Since the café It began to become popular as an everyday drink centuries ago, its impact on health has been the subject of constant research. Beyond being a source of morning energy, its benefits for the heart, metabolism and longevity have made headlines. However, a new field of study has revealed that Coffee also has a direct and surprising effect on microbiota intestinalthat vast community of microorganisms that lives in our intestines and plays a crucial role in health.
The impact of this drink on the microbiome is revealed as another chapter in its history as a superfood. A recent study published in the journal Nature Microbiology confirms that coffee not only benefits the body in general, but also nourishes and stimulates certain types of specific intestinal bacteria, such as the species Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus. This discovery, supported by data from more than 22,000 participants, shows how an almost daily habit like drinking coffee can influence such fundamental aspects as digestion, immunity and metabolic balance.
But how does coffee achieve this effect? The secret lies in its complex chemical composition. Containing hundreds of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, Coffee feeds the beneficial bacteria that inhabit the intestine.
The microbiota intestinalcomposed of trillions of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms, plays a central role in digestion, nutrient absorption, the functioning of the immune system and even mental health. Each person harbors a unique microbiota, shaped by factors such as genetics, environment and, crucially, diet.
Scientists have identified that the foods we consume alter the composition of our microbiota, favoring certain microorganisms and harming others.
A recent study, carried out by the nutritional science company’s research team ZOErevealed that regular coffee consumers have a significantly different microbiota than those who do not consume it. Among the most prominent bacteria is Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticuswhich showed a presence up to eight times greater in frequent coffee drinkers.
According to researchers, the beneficial effect of coffee on the microbiota is mainly due to the polyphenolsantioxidant compounds that not only help lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure, but also feed gut bacteria.
In addition to polyphenols, coffee contains chlorogenic acid, quinine, and quinic acid derivatives, all of which are metabolized by the microbiome to produce secondary compounds that may be beneficial to health. Interestingly, these effects are found in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee, suggesting that the benefits are not directly linked to caffeine.
Another revealing fact is that the bacteria L. asaccharolyticus appears to thrive only in the presence of coffee, underscoring the symbiotic relationship between this beverage and the microbiota. This bacteria, although recently discovered, is gaining attention for its ability to metabolize coffee compounds into others with possible health properties.
The impact of coffee on the microbiota could partly explain its known health benefits. Previous studies have already indicated that coffee can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and some types of cancer. Now, scientists suggest that the interaction between coffee and the microbiome could be a key factor behind these effects.
A healthy microbiota favored by coffee not only improves digestion and intestinal regularity, but can also influence the immune system and mood. The microbial diversity promoted by coffee reinforces the theory that a diet rich in plants and fermented foods is essential to maintain intestinal balance.
These findings open new doors towards personalized nutritionan approach that tailors dietary recommendations to the specific composition of each individual’s microbiome. According to Professor Tim Spector, co-author of the study and co-founder of ZOE, “gut microbiome data offers a unique window into deciphering people’s diets, helping them improve their health by feeding their microbes.”
While scientists do not yet fully understand how L. asaccharolyticus impacts human health, this discovery represents only “the tip of the iceberg.” As additional research is developed, specific dietary strategies may emerge to optimize gut and overall health through consumption of coffee and other polyphenol-rich foods.
Coffee is not just a drink that accompanies the mornings; It is a potential ally of intestinal and general health. Its ability to nourish specific bacteria and promote a diverse microbiota puts it at the center of the diet and wellness conversation. So the next time you make a cup, remember that you are not only enjoying its flavor, but also feeding the billions of microorganisms that work for your health.
