Inflammatory cytokines are messenger molecules of the immune system that activate and direct inflammation. The authors of this recently published study state: “In order to investigate the risk-reducing effects of coffee in metabolic syndrome, we performed a study in mice fed a high-fat diet with added coffee and analyzed gene expression in liver and adipose tissues using cDNA microarray.” Metabolic syndrome is also known as ‘pre-diabetes’. The instant coffee significantly reduced inflammatory gene expression, and “Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) [liver enzymes] levels were significantly lower…” Mesenteric (visceral) fat was lower in the decaf group and even lower in the regular coffee subjects. They conclude: “The induction of these anti-inflammatory responses by coffee consumption may contribute to reducing the risks of metabolic syndrome.” HOWEVER, please bear in mind the precautions in the previous post on coffee and tea.
Tags: coffee, inflammation, metabolic syndrome