APC Microbiome Ireland finds coffee alters gut microbes and affects mood and cognition
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Apr 24
APC Microbiome Ireland finds coffee alters gut microbes and affects mood and cognition
14 articles · Updated · Fox News · Apr 24
The study tracked 62 participants—31 coffee drinkers and 31 non-drinkers—over several weeks, examining psychological tests and gut bacteria changes after periods of coffee abstinence and resumption.
Both caffeinated and decaf coffee were linked to lower stress and depression, with caffeinated coffee improving focus and decaf boosting learning and memory, possibly due to better sleep and increased activity.
Researchers caution that the small sample size, reliance on self-reported data, and uncontrolled dietary factors limit generalizability, but highlight coffee’s complex influence beyond caffeine, involving polyphenols and antioxidants.
A coffee industry group funded this study; how does this affect its health claims?
Decaf improves memory while caffeine boosts focus; which is better for your brain?
Is it the coffee or the ritual of the break that truly improves our mood?
If polyphenols are the key, what other foods could replicate coffee's mood benefits?
Can your daily coffee be customized to boost specific brain-boosting gut bacteria?
What is the perfect daily coffee dose for a healthier gut and a sharper mind?