Coffee is an integral part of everyday life for most people. For some people it suppresses appetite, while for others it seems to increase it. Is this simply a matter of habit—or could it be… DNA?
Modern scientific evidence suggests that coffee’s effect on body weight is not the same for everyone, but depends to a significant extent on each individual’s genetic profile. The science of nutrigenetics, which studies the interaction between genes and nutrition, helps explain why the same cup of coffee can have very different effects from person to person.
The study by Gkouskou et al. (2022) demonstrated that regular coffee consumption (approximately 3–4 cups per day) is associated with lower body weight only in individuals with specific genetic characteristics.
The study was based on data from Greek volunteers who:
underwent genetic testing,
recorded their dietary habits in detail,
were assessed in terms of appetite, body weight, and lifestyle factors.
In parallel, researchers examined how coffee affects food choices and the secretion of hormones involved in hunger and satiety.
The results showed that the beneficial effect of coffee on body weight appears when two main genetic conditions coexist:
A genetic variant in the CYP1A2 gene, which determines how quickly the body metabolizes caffeine. Individuals with a “fast caffeine metabolism” seem to benefit more from coffee consumption.
A genetic predisposition to increased body weight or obesity, identified through the combined analysis of multiple genes involved in metabolism.
In these individuals, coffee appears to suppress appetite and is associated with a lower body mass index (BMI).
Of particular interest is the role of hormones that regulate hunger, such as:
asprosin, which increases appetite,
leptin, which is linked to satiety.
The study showed that levels of these hormones change differently after coffee consumption depending on an individual’s genetic profile. This helps explain why some people feel full after drinking coffee, while others feel hungrier.
These findings highlight the importance of personalized nutrition. Coffee is neither a universal “ally” nor an “enemy.” Its effects depend on how our bodies—and especially our genes—metabolize it.
Within the framework of precision nutrition, genetic analysis can:
determine whether coffee can be strategically included in a weight-loss program,
support the design of personalized dietary plans,
help avoid generic dietary advice that does not work for everyone.
Modern genetic science shows us that there is no one-size-fits-all diet. Even everyday habits, such as drinking coffee, interact with our DNA in unique ways.
For some people, coffee can be a useful tool for appetite regulation and weight management. For others, it may not. The answer lies in their genetic blueprint.
At GENOSOPHY, we harness the power of predictive genomics to translate scientific knowledge into practical, personalized wellness solutions—based on you and your DNA.
