Coffee alters intestinal microbiome and reduces stress and depression levels, new study shows
Pesquisadores of APC Microbiome Ireland, linked to University College Cork, identified how coffee interacts with the gut-brain axis to benefit mental and physical health. The study details that regular consumption of the drink shapes the intestinal microbiome, directly influencing mood, attention and memory. Publicada in the magazine Nature Communications, the investigation compared individuals who consume three to five cups daily with people who do not have the habit. The results show that both the caffeinated and decaffeinated versions promote significant biological changes. The analysis used complex psychological and biological measurements to map communication between the digestive system and the central nervous system.
The research used a rigorous methodology to isolate the effects of coffee components. Durante the experiment, habitual consumers went through a period of two weeks of total abstinence from drinking. Após At this stage, scientists reintroduced coffee blindly, where participants did not know whether they were drinking the regular or decaffeinated version. Esse process allowed us to observe clear changes in the metabolites produced by gut microbes.
Mudanças in the microbiome and the role of specific bacteria
Analysis of fecal and urine samples revealed the presence of specific microorganisms in greater abundance in coffee consumers. Scientists highlighted that certain bacteria perform protective functions in the human body. The balance of these colonies is essential for maintaining systemic health.
- Eggertella sp: Micróbio associated with the production of essential digestive acids.
- Cryptobacterium tanning: Atua in the synthesis of bile acids that fight pathogens.
- Firmicutes: Bacterial Grupo correlated with the manifestation of positive emotions.
- Polifenóis: Compostos antioxidants present in the grain that aid cognition.
Researchers observed that the presence of these bacteria helps protect the body against infections and inflammatory processes. The increase in Firmicutes was particularly noted in women, suggesting a biological response linked to emotional well-being. Essa variation in gut microbiota explains why coffee has historically been linked to long-term digestive benefits. Science can now track which microscopic agents are responsible for these specific improvements.
Efeitos of Coffee on Mood and Stress Reduction
The reintroduction of the drink after the break period brought surprising results for the psychological state of the volunteers. Tanto, the group that received caffeine and the group that took decaffeinated reported immediate improvements. Houve a noticeable drop in levels of stress, depression and impulsivity.
Isso indicates that the pleasure or benefit of coffee does not depend exclusively on the plant’s best-known stimulant. Decaffeinated coffee has been shown to be effective in emotional regulation, which raises new hypotheses about other bioactive compounds. The feeling of well-being may be linked to the way the microbiome processes the polyphenols in the drink. Esses components interact with the nervous system through chemical signals sent by the intestine.
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Diferenças between the caffeinated and decaffeinated version
Embora Both types of coffee helped with mood, the study found distinct roles for caffeine. Participants who drank regular coffee showed specific gains in executive functions and biological protection. The distinction between the groups was clear in cognitive performance assessments.
The caffeinated version was the only one capable of measurably reducing anxiety among those tested. Além Furthermore, caffeine consumers showed higher levels of attention and alertness during the proposed tasks. Outro relevant point was the association of caffeine with the reduction of inflammatory markers in the blood. Isso suggests a preventive role against chronic diseases linked to systemic inflammation.
On the other hand, decaffeinated coffee surprised researchers in the field of learning. Apenas the group that consumed the stimulant-free version demonstrated statistically relevant improvements in short- and long-term memory. Scientists believe that the absence of caffeine’s adrenaline rush may allow other nutrients to act in a more focused way in the brain. Este finding is essential for those seeking cognitive benefits without the side effects of agitation or insomnia.
The gut-brain axis and future perspectives
Professor John Cryan, one of the research leaders, emphasized that public interest in gut health has never been higher. The connection between what we eat and how we feel is one of the most promising frontiers in modern medicine. The study confirms that an everyday drink can act as a powerful modulator of our internal biology.
Research paves the way for new diet-based treatments for mood disorders. Entender bidirectional communication between the intestine and the brain allows for more precise and less invasive interventions. Coffee, being one of the most consumed drinks on the planet, becomes a central object of study for global public health. Next steps include investigating how different types of roasting and preparation can alter these microbiotic properties.
