Korede Abdullah in Lagos
A landmark study published in March 2023 has revealed a significant connection between caffeine levels in the blood and reduced body fat, potentially lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Researchers from the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, the University of Bristol, and Imperial College London collaborated on the project.
The study analyzed data from nearly 10,000 individuals, focusing on genetic variations associated with caffeine metabolism.
The findings indicated that higher caffeine levels in the blood corresponded with lower body mass index (BMI) and whole body fat mass. Additionally, genetically predicted higher plasma caffeine concentrations were linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
According to the researchers, approximately half of the effect of caffeine on type 2 diabetes liability was attributed to BMI reduction. The study employed Mendelian randomization, a statistical approach that helps establish causal relationships between genetic variations and diseases.
“Genetically predicted higher plasma caffeine concentrations were associated with lower BMI and whole body fat mass,” the researchers wrote in their paper, published in March 2023.
“Furthermore, genetically predicted higher plasma caffeine concentrations were associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Approximately half of the effect of caffeine on type 2 diabetes liability was estimated to be mediated through BMI reduction.”
While previous research has suggested moderate caffeine consumption may contribute to better heart health and lower BMI, this study provides further insight into caffeine’s effects on the body.
The researchers propose that caffeine’s impact on thermogenesis (heat production) and fat oxidation (turning fat into energy) may be responsible for its association with reduced body fat.
However, the study also acknowledges that caffeine’s effects on the body are not entirely positive, emphasizing the need for caution when evaluating its benefits. The researchers note that small, short-term trials have demonstrated caffeine’s potential for weight and fat mass reduction, but long-term effects remain unknown.
The study’s findings suggest calorie-free caffeinated drinks could be explored as a potential means of reducing body fat levels. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to confirm cause and effect, as Mendelian randomization is not foolproof.
The researchers conclude that considering the widespread consumption of caffeine globally, even its small metabolic effects could have significant health implications.
This study marks an essential step in understanding the ideal amount of caffeine for optimal health benefits.
