Coffee enhances gut microbiome diversity, boosting beneficial bacteria like Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus.
Coffee, a staple morning beverage for millions of people, is revealing itself to be more than just a source of energy and comfort. Recent research draws attention to its role in shaping the gut microbiome, a complex system of microorganisms that influences overall health. By examining thousands of samples from diverse populations, researchers have identified compelling links between coffee consumption and the growth of specific gut bacteria, especially Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus.
A study involving over 22,000 individuals provided a comprehensive look at how coffee interacts with the microbiome. Participants detailed their coffee consumption habits, categorized into non-drinkers, moderate drinkers, and high drinkers. Data from this cohort was integrated with public datasets encompassing 54,000 samples, offering insights into how coffee consumption affects different groups, including non-Western populations and those with specific health conditions.
One of the standout findings is that coffee, caffeinated or decaffeinated, consistently promotes the growth of Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus, a bacterium whose prevalence was up to eight times higher in heavy coffee drinkers compared to non-drinkers. Moderate drinkers showed a three- to four-fold increase in these microorganisms. The bacterium appears to thrive on compounds in coffee unrelated to caffeine, such as polyphenols like chlorogenic acid. These compounds are metabolized by gut microorganisms into beneficial metabolites, such as quinic acid, which likely contribute to the growth and activity of Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus.
To confirm these findings, researchers conducted in vitro (live) experiments, adding coffee to cultures of Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus. Regardless of brewing method or caffeine content, coffee led to a significant increase in the bacterium, further establishing a direct relationship between coffee and the microbiome. Alongside this specific bacterial growth, the study identified 115 gut microbial species positively associated with coffee intake, highlighting the beverage’s extensive influence on microbial diversity and composition.
Beyond individual benefits, the study stated that coffee consumption at a population level can shape microbial prevalence in communities. For instance, Western populations, where coffee is widely consumed, had a higher prevalence of Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus compared to non-Western groups, pointing to dietary habits as a key factor alongside the beverage in promoting microbial distribution.
Metabolomic analysis provided deeper insights, linking coffee to various enriched metabolites that exist in one’s bloodstream. Quinic acid, its derivatives, and uncharacterized metabolites stood out as being associated with coffee intake and Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus. While caffeine remains a focal point in coffee studies, this research shifts attention to other bioactive compounds in coffee that play significant roles in modulating the microbiome. Coffee’s ability to enhance beneficial microbial species and their metabolites may partly explain its associations with reduced risks of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and certain cancers.
Future studies could investigate how varying coffee preparation methods and consumption levels affect microbiome dynamics over time. Research might also explore the interactions between coffee-related microbial changes and other dietary elements, perhaps changing the generally accepted recommendations for dietary patterns that promote gut health and overall well-being.
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Scientists uncover coffee’s surprising effect on gut microbiota
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