Does caffeine cause inflammation?

Here, read what three medical experts say about coffee’s impact, and why the effects are subjective.

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But does coffee cause inflammation?

When we think aboutinflammation, its usually not in a positive way.

One of the simplest ways to keep inflammation in check is to think before we eator drink.

Photography of a apple juice in glasses and apples in a wicker basket on wooden table

gastroenterologist and author ofThe Gut-Immune Connection

So you might find yourself Googling, does coffee cause inflammation?

But know that the answer isnt as straightforward as you might think.

Does drinking coffee cause inflammation in the body?

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To understand how your body reacts to caffeine, first think about any underlying health issues you may have.

Outside of underlying health conditions, consider how quickly your body metabolizes caffeine.

For example,green teahas powerful catechins like EGCG that have been shown to help drive down inflammation.

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But regularsodathat contains added sugars like high-fructose corn syrup can increase inflammation.

Dr. Cole says the quality of the coffee matters, too.

So if you’re free to afford to, buy organic to minimize exposure to those factors.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

gastroenterologist and author ofThe Gut-Immune Connection

To find out, though, you could considercounteracting caffeineby opting for an anti-inflammatory, non-caffeinated beverage, instead.

Dr. Mayer suggests fermented drinks, like kombucha, kefir, and yogurt beverages.

Can decaffeinated coffee trigger inflammation?

A hand is stirring a sourdough starter in a glass jar, on a kitchen countertop. The light casts a warm glow, highlighting the ingredients inside the jar.

Since the beverage still contains polyphenols, research shows that decaffeinated coffee offers a host of health benefitsnot deterrents.

Are there anti-inflammatory compounds present in coffee?

Remember, not everyone will have an inflammatory response to caffeine (thank goodness).

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.

In factas we mentioned abovemany people can actually benefit from regular caffeine consumption.

Mayer, theres a reason for that.

The main polyphenols in coffee are caffeine, chlorogenic acid, diterpenes, and trigonelline.

Another benefit of caffeine consumption?

According to Dr. Mayer, regular polyphenol consumption has been shown to increase the diversity of the gut microbiome.

To drink or not to drink?

If youre unsure of how caffeine is affecting you, talk to your doctor.

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