Coffee may help reduce visceral fat, the deep abdominal fat that surrounds internal organs and is linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, according to verywellhealth.com. Some studies suggest the drink can shrink this fat, though there is an important caveat to how it should be consumed.
How Coffee Affects Metabolism and Fat
Coffee is rich in caffeine, which stimulates the nervous system. Its effects can temporarily speed up metabolism for up to three hours, with some studies showing increases of 5 to 20 percent, according to the outlet. A faster metabolism means the body burns calories more efficiently, even at rest.
Caffeine also raises levels of the neurotransmitter adrenaline, signaling fat cells to release stored fat molecules so they can be broken down and used for energy, the outlet reported.
Blood Sugar and Exercise Benefits
Some studies suggest coffee can help lower blood sugar levels, though findings are mixed and other research points to increases. Coffee contains chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that helps break down and process sugar, according to the outlet, and decaf coffee has also been linked to improved sugar metabolism and lower diabetes risk.
Caffeine's stimulating effect can also boost energy for physical activity, and the outlet noted that black coffee is a more natural pre-workout option than energy drinks, since it contains no added sugar or processed ingredients.
Why Black Coffee Matters
Black coffee is very low in calories, and swapping high-calorie drinks like soda, juice or lattes for it can help cut calorie intake, a key part of sustainable weight loss, according to the outlet. The catch: coffee should be drunk black, without sugar, syrups or high-calorie creamers, which can cancel out its benefits.
The outlet also noted that caffeinated teas, including green, oolong and black tea, can affect metabolism and weight loss through compounds like catechins and polyphenols that interact with caffeine to oxidize fat.
