Coffee Drinkers Have Less Fat, More Muscle, And Surprising Sex Hormone Differences
A clearer picture is emerging.
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A new study published in the European Journal of Nutrition reveals that regular coffee drinkers may experience distinct changes in body composition and hormone levels. Researchers from the University of Oulu examined data from over 2,200 middle-aged participants, comparing their coffee consumption habits with various health markers including body fat, muscle mass, and sex hormones. The findings showed that individuals who consume more coffee tend to have lower body fat and greater skeletal muscle mass, even when their overall body mass index remained similar to those who drink less coffee.
Perhaps most notably, the research uncovered significant hormonal differences between male and female coffee drinkers. Men who consumed higher amounts of coffee demonstrated elevated testosterone levels and improved glucose-insulin profiles, while women showed weaker associations, primarily involving changes in hormone-binding proteins. Researchers also discovered that increased coffee intake was linked to lower levels of branched-chain amino acids in the bloodstream—compounds previously associated with metabolic problems like insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
According to lead researcher Luca Verroest, these hormonal patterns persisted even after accounting for body mass index and lifestyle factors. The study captured data at a single point in time rather than tracking participants over an extended period. Scientists emphasize that while coffee contains numerous bioactive compounds, further long-term research is necessary to determine whether these associations reflect causation and to identify which specific coffee compounds produce these effects.
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Originally reported by Sciencealert →
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