From the Guidelines
Coffee consumption has a neutral or slightly beneficial effect on triglyceride levels, particularly when consumed in moderation and without added sugars or creams. The relationship between coffee consumption and triglyceride levels is complex, and the type of coffee consumed plays a significant role. Filtered coffee, in particular, has been shown to have a neutral or slightly beneficial effect on triglycerides, while unfiltered coffee may raise triglyceride levels due to compounds called diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol) 1.
Some key points to consider:
- Filtered coffee is a better choice for those concerned about triglycerides, as it has a lower content of diterpenes compared to unfiltered coffee.
- Adding sugar, cream, or flavored syrups to coffee can significantly increase caloric intake and potentially raise triglycerides, so black coffee is preferable.
- Caffeine itself may temporarily increase triglyceride levels in some people, so those with high triglycerides might consider limiting intake to morning hours.
- The overall impact of coffee on triglycerides is generally modest compared to other dietary factors like sugar, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol consumption.
- For those with elevated triglycerides (above 150 mg/dL), focusing on a diet low in refined carbohydrates and sugars, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight will have a more significant impact than coffee consumption alone.
It's also worth noting that coffee contains phenolic compounds, mainly caffeoylquinic acids, p-coumaroylquinic, feruoylquinic and dicaffeoylquinic acids, which inhibit protein glycation and dicarbonyl compound formation, potentially having a beneficial effect on triglyceride levels and overall health 1. In summary, moderate coffee consumption, defined as 2-3 cups per day, is unlikely to have a significant impact on triglyceride levels, and may even have a slightly beneficial effect when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
From the Research
Relationship Between Coffee Consumption and Triglyceride Levels
- The study 2 found no significant differences in the mean serum triglyceride levels after 28 days of moderate coffee consumption in healthy adults.
- However, the meta-analysis 3 showed that coffee consumption significantly increased triglyceride (TG) levels (WMD: 0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI: 0.03; 0.20, P = 0.006).
- Another meta-analysis 4 found that drinking coffee for 45 days was associated with an increase of 12.6 mg/dl (95% CI: 3.5,12.6; P = 0.007) for triglyceride (TG).
- The study 5 observed a positive dose-dependent association between self-reported coffee intake and plasma concentration of triglycerides, with the highest lipid levels seen among participants who reported drinking >6 cups/day.
Factors Influencing the Relationship
- The type of coffee consumed may influence the relationship between coffee consumption and triglyceride levels, with unfiltered coffee potentially having a greater effect on increasing triglyceride levels 4.
- The amount of coffee consumed may also play a role, with higher intake potentially leading to greater increases in triglyceride levels 3, 4, 5.
- Individual characteristics, such as hyperlipidemia, may also influence the relationship between coffee consumption and triglyceride levels, with certain individuals potentially being more sensitive to the effects of coffee on triglyceride levels 4.