Caffeine Linked to Lower Body Fat and Diabetes Risk

A new study published in BMJ Medicine has found that having a higher level of caffeine in your blood could reduce body fat and the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study examined data from 10,000 people of European ancestry and looked at two specific genetic mutations that have been linked to a slower speed of caffeine metabolism. They found that people with these two common genetic variants had lower body mass index and fat mass, as well as a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. It is worth noting that the researchers highlighted caution when drawing conclusions or making changes to behavior as other factors, such as ingredients found in caffeinated drinks and foods, may also be involved. Furthermore, too much caffeine can also have harmful effects, so a balance is necessary. Senior lecturer in diabetes and obesity at the University of Exeter, Katarina Kos, emphasized that “when considering coffee consumption and caffeine-containing energy drinks, one must be mindful of the potential negative offset by surplus calories in the form of sugar and fat in many of these drinks.” She also noted that “a benefit has yet to be proven” from increasing the use of calorie-free caffeine drinks. Additional research is needed to better understand the causal effect of caffeine on metabolism and whether or not it can be used to reduce the risks of obesity, diabetes, and other conditions.