Some people can’t imagine starting their morning without coffee. The caffeine provides a nice wake-up call and gives you the energy you need to make it through the day. But what if we told you that simply changing the way you brew your coffee can aid weight loss? New research out of Denmark suggests that one simple change may help you burn more fat. Here’s what you need to know.
Can you drink coffee for weight loss?
A group of Danish researchers have been studying how a coffee compound known as cafestol affects metabolic health. Their latest trial, published in September 2024 in the journal Nutrients, suggests that the daily ingestion of cafestol may support fat loss and weight loss.
“Cafestol is a natural compound found in the oily parts of the coffee bean, and the amount of cafestol found in your coffee is directly related to brewing techniques,” explains Brittany Werner, RDN, a registered dietitian and director of coaching at Working Against Gravity. It not only adds flavor to coffee, but also offers a variety of health benefits.
How to brew coffee for weight loss
If you’re looking to get your java fix and melt pounds, you might want to reconsider how you brew your next cup of coffee. “The brewing method you choose can drastically change the chemical composition of your coffee, and thus the potential health effects,” says Jonathan Kaplan, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon, founder and CEO of BuildMyHealth.
That’s where the cafestol comes in. “Drip coffee, or using paper filters, traps most cafestol” in these filters, preventing it from reaching your cup, Werner says. But “unfiltered, boiled, espresso or Turkish varieties have a higher cafestol content.”
Choosing one of these brewing methods is ideal if you’re trying to lose weight because not only does it deliver more fat-burning cafestol (more on that below), it also provides a higher concentration of caffeine and antioxidants in a smaller volume. “Caffeine can increase our metabolism, helping to burn more calories at rest and promote the release of fatty acids for increased energy,” adds Werner.
How the cafestol in coffee aids weight loss
During the 12-week trial, most participants who ingested cafestol daily reduced their body weight and visceral fat. Specifically, those taking the cafestol lost nearly 2 lbs., while those taking the placebo gained more than 2 lbs.
Dr. Kaplan shares that cafestol increases glutathione production, one of the strongest antioxidants associated with cell health and detoxification processes. “The ability to boost this antioxidant could theoretically improve natural metabolic efficiency and even possibly help with weight control,” he says.
In addition to cafestol, “coffee contains compounds called chlorogenic acids that may help slow the absorption of some carbohydrates and aid in blood sugar regulation,” says Werner. These compounds play a role in influencing hunger hormones, improving appetite regulation and reducing emotional eating.
Other health benefits of cafestol
Cafestol has anti-inflammatory properties, which are great for your general well-being. “Alleviating chronic inflammation is believed to be linked to obesity and metabolic disorders—so anything you can do to decrease inflammation is a big plus for overall metabolically healthy weight,” says Dr. Kaplan.
Looking to up your intake of antioxidants? The coffee compound is full of them! Antioxidants’ main role in the body is to reduce stress and cell damage, adds Werner. “The combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits of cafestol may support increased cognitive function, overall brain health and reduce the risk of degenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s” Werner says.
Worth noting: While cafestol is typically good for your health, it can increase “bad” LDL cholesterol levels if you consume too much. “Those with a history of high cholesterol or who are watching their cholesterol should consume unfiltered coffee in moderation,” cautions Werner.
For more healthy beverages
White Tea Benefits Heart Health, Could Help With Weight Loss and More
How Green Tea Can Help You Lose Weight
New Apple Cider Vinegar Study: How Much You Need to Lose 15 Ibs in 12 Weeks
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.