Does Coffee Affect GLP-1? Here’s What the Science Suggests

Weight management drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may be a hot topic, but they wouldn’t exist without the real deal: GLP-1. Short for glucagon-like peptide-1, GLP-1 is a hormone your body makes naturally. It plays a key role in blood sugar control, appetite regulation and satiety. Supporting healthy GLP-1 levels can help with weight management and metabolic health.^[1]

Not interested in the prescription route? The good news is that many things can naturally boost GLP-1, such as diet, exercise and, yes, perhaps even your daily cup of coffee. Keep reading to discover what the science says.

What Is GLP-1 and Why It Matters

Does coffee affect GLP-1? First, let’s unpack what GLP-1 is and how it’s produced in the body. GLP-1 is an intestinal hormone your body releases shortly after you eat. Carbohydrates break down into glucose, which raises blood sugar. GLP-1 signals your pancreas to release insulin, allowing your cells to utilize glucose for energy. It also helps keep weight in check by slowing digestion and telling your brain that you’re getting full.^[2]

Ozempic and Wegovy, also known as GLP-1 agonist medications, have become household names. These are prescription drugs that mimic the effects of this natural hormone. While they were initially developed to help people with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar, everyone from celebrities to regular folks has turned to them to support weight management. The stats agree: Sales for GLP-1 drugs reached $4.1 billion in 2022.^[3] Popularity is expected to grow, with global sales estimated to climb to $139 billion by 2030.

Can Coffee Naturally Stimulate GLP-1?

Yes and no. Your daily cup of joe won’t mimic the effects of GLP-1 medications, but coffee is one of the main dietary sources of polyphenols like chlorogenic acid. One cup contains roughly 70 to 350 mg.^[4]

Chlorogenic acid is the key to stimulating GLP-1, influencing gut hormones and supporting healthy glucose response. However, research in this area is still emerging.^[5]

Coffee’s Other Metabolic Benefits

Although coffee doesn’t mimic GLP-1 function, it still offers other perks that can support a healthy metabolism. Research suggests that coffee polyphenols may aid the body in processing carbohydrates more efficiently. By regulating blood sugar and energy levels, you’re better armed against the mid-afternoon slump.^[6]

Coffee polyphenols also offer antioxidant benefits that can contribute to overall metabolic health.^[7]

The Role of Functional Coffee

Functional coffee is anything but basic. It’s coffee enhanced with functional ingredients for added health benefits. These extras go by many names, including adaptogens, adaptogenic mushrooms and nootropics. In addition to supporting energy, focus and mental clarity, certain ingredients may also complement GLP-1’s natural effects.

If you’re ready to upgrade your coffee routine, here are functional ingredients that help give GLP-1 a boost:

MCT oil

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT oils) are a type of dietary fat that’s naturally found in coconut and palm kernel oils. MCT oils are already popular, especially among those on ketogenic diets, for their many health benefits. This includes providing energy for the brain and body and aiding in weight management.^[8]

While some research suggests that certain fats in MCT oil may help your body release GLP-1, not all types of MCTs do this. It’s mainly the C10 fat (capric acid) that may boost GLP-1; C8 (caprylic acid) doesn’t have the same effect.^[9]

Fiber

Here’s one more reason to get your daily fiber. According to NPR, fiber works similarly to GLP-1 drugs by keeping hunger at bay for hours. Once fiber reaches the large intestine, bacteria break it down into smaller molecules. These molecules can trigger the release of two hormones linked to curbing hunger: GLP-1 and PYY (peptide YY).^[10]

Soluble fiber is the most effective at stimulating GLP-1. This includes sources like fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. Prefer supplements to fill nutrient gaps? Gut Health Collagen Protein is a daily collagen supplement for gut health, made with 2 billion CFU probiotics and prebiotics (food for good gut bacteria) along with a custom digestive blend that contains gut-friendly nutrients like zinc carnosine and glycine.

Protein

When it comes to curbing hunger, no other macronutrient does it like protein. Why? Your body takes longer to digest high-protein foods like meat, legumes and dairy. Like fiber, these foods also help reduce hunger hormones.^[11]

Protein is also a natural GLP-1 booster. When protein is broken down into amino acids, it helps trigger the release of GLP-1. One study found that the result is even stronger when protein is paired with calcium, such as in dairy products.^[12]

Should You Use Coffee as a GLP-1 Alternative?

Coffee isn’t a one-to-one replacement for GLP-1 medications. But it has merit thanks to compounds like caffeine, antioxidants and add-ins such as MCT oil, fiber and protein. These all play a supportive role in managing appetite, energy and blood sugar as part of a balanced metabolic lifestyle.