How Caffeine and Coffee Impact Your Metabolism

Everyone loves their coffee. People use it to wake up, connect with friends and family, and start their day on an enjoyable note. As the wellness movement has gained steam, caffeine drinkers have dug their heels in—mugs in hand—insisting that their beverages benefit their bodies and minds. But, as more research emerges about metabolic and nervous system health, it’s important to consider ways to make your caffeine habit conducive to your overall wellbeing.  

Does Caffeine Improve Mood & Focus?

Many people use coffee to satiate their appetite and focus. According to the American Medical Association, moderate amounts of caffeine intake can increase your metabolic rate and reduce cravings. Over the course of three hours, caffeine can boost metabolic rate by 3 and 20 percent. However, this must be done in moderation and within the context of a healthy lifestyle. 

The metabolic boost that caffeine provides may also improve mood, making it easier to exercise and choose foods that support overall health. The AMA also reports that caffeine can improve your workout. We all know the difference between an energized, caffeinated workout and a sluggish, un-caffeinated one. If caffeine can help you get moving and feel your best, it’s fine to add it to your routine from healthy sources. Try to source high-quality coffee beans, which contain antioxidants that support recovery and reduce inflammation. 

Why Mold-Tested Coffee Is Important for Metabolism

Not all caffeine sources are created equal. If you’re looking to reap the benefits of a boosted metabolism for your workout or work day, make sure to get your caffeine from high-quality beverages like mold-tested coffee.

Many coffee grounds have mold, which can negatively impact overall health and cause inflammation in the respiratory tract. These mycotoxins, released by mold, can make you sick and wreak havoc on important systems in the body. Thankfully, most brands contain well below toxic levels of mold. But, if you’re looking for peace of mind and the cleanest option, it may be best to choose a high-quality, mold-tested coffee. 

The Drawbacks of Too Much Caffeine

While caffeine can support metabolic and brain health, it may also spike your stress hormones. In the morning, cortisol is at its highest to help you wake up and start your day. Caffeine increases cortisol levels which, when too high, can make your body hold onto weight, disrupt your sleep, and negatively affect your ability to slip into the parasympathetic nervous system—also known as rest-and-digest mode. If you find yourself feeling stressed or jittery after you drink your coffee or tea, dial back your intake and eat a meal high in protein and fiber beforehand. Having food in your stomach can slow the absorption of the caffeine molecules, making for a more gradual rise in energy. 

Caffeine and Digestion Issues

It’s also important to consider your digestion when deciding on your caffeine routine. The digestive system works in tandem with your metabolism to effectively convert food to energy. For some people, coffee can irritate their gut, causing indigestion, bloating, and heartburn. If you find yourself in this camp, opt for low-acid coffee roasts which will decrease the spike in stomach acid after drinking your morning brew. You can also reach for a cold brew coffee due to its lower acid content, Mindbodygreen suggests. 

The Takeaway

Caffeine, when ingested in moderate amounts from high-quality sources, can give your body a surge of energy it needs to take on the day, boost your metabolism, and provide powerful antioxidants. Find your sweet spot by experimenting to see if you feel better having your coffee after a high-protein breakfast or before, and try low-acid options to reduce gut irritation. Combined with healthy lifestyle choices, your morning coffee could help you see the results you’d like and feel your best. 
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If you want to live a healthier lifestyle, Virta Health may be able to help. By making healthy lifestyle changes in a medical setting with supportive resources like 1:1 virtual coaching, you can regain control of your metabolism and feel like yourself again. See if you’re eligible for Virta Health here.

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