Finnish Study: Coffee’s Effects on Sex Hormones in Men and Women
- Finnish study links regular coffee consumption to healthier body composition in both sexes.
- Significant increase in total testosterone and SHBG in men.
- Increased SHBG and decreased free androgens in women.
- Lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in both sexes.
- Lower BCAAs indicate reduced risk of insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease.
- The study included over 2,200 participants aged 46.
A new scientific study by researchers at the University of Oulu in Finland has found that regular coffee consumption is linked to healthier body composition. Coffee drinkers had lower stored fat and greater muscle mass compared to non-drinkers. The study also revealed surprising hormonal effects that differ between men and women.
The study was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. It analyzed data from over 2,200 participants aged 46. The research team examined the relationship between coffee consumption, heart health indicators, metabolic outcomes, and sex hormone levels.
A Hormonal Signature Linked to Coffee
The results revealed a “hormonal signature” linked to coffee. The strongest effects were seen in men. Coffee consumption was associated with improved glucose and insulin regulation. Men also showed higher levels of total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).
In women, coffee was linked to increased SHBG and decreased free androgens. These hormones are responsible for libido, mood, and the health of the body, hair, and bones.
| Gender | Hormonal Effect |
|---|---|
| Men | Increased total testosterone, increased SHBG, improved glucose and insulin regulation |
| Women | Increased SHBG, decreased free androgens |
Hormonal Changes Independent of Lifestyle
Lead researcher Luca Viruisti, a nutrition specialist, explained that these hormonal changes remained significant even after excluding lifestyle factors and body mass index. This suggests coffee has a direct effect on the hormonal system, not just a result of other healthy habits.
Lower Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)
The results showed lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in the blood of coffee drinkers of both sexes. Researchers noted that lower levels of these amino acids are a positive indicator. Chronic elevation of BCAAs is linked to risks of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and declining liver health.
| Risks Linked to High BCAAs | Benefits of Lower BCAAs |
|---|---|
| Insulin resistance | Improved insulin sensitivity |
| Type 2 diabetes | Lower diabetes risk |
| Heart disease | Lower cardiovascular risk |
| Declining liver health | Improved liver function |
Conclusion: Coffee’s Divergent Hormonal Effects
The study confirms that coffee has hormonal effects that differ between men and women. For men, coffee appears supportive of testosterone levels and metabolic health. For women, it may be linked to hormonal changes that affect libido and mood.
On the positive side, coffee was linked to lower branched-chain amino acids in both sexes. This reduction may contribute to lowering the risks of insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease. Further studies are needed to understand the precise mechanisms behind these effects.
