Recently, a study led by the Imdea Food Institute, published in the journal Nature Communications, revealed that harmol (coffee compound), improves skeletal muscle function and some metabolic parameters associated with quality of life during aging.
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Also, among the changes at the neuromuscular level, a significant reduction in frailty was observed in older animals treated with harmol, the institute said in a statement.
The harmol is present in many foods such as meat, fish or cereals, as well as in coffee beans. At the doses used in the study, this substance did not show any toxicity and had few effects on the central nervous system, due to its poor ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and therefore reach the brain.
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One of the main researchers of the study, Fablo J. Fernández-Marcos, told EuropaPress that: “With harmol we have discovered that this mitochondrial enhancement effect is carried out by cells through mechanisms similar to those that make us feel happier, since they share the same target proteins. This opens up a very interesting field of research on the association between psychological state and aging.”
Beyond the benefits that this compound has for health, coffee brings other advantages to the body if consumed in moderate doses.
With harmol we have discovered that this mitochondrial enhancement effect is carried out by cells through mechanisms similar to those that make us feel happier.
- Stimulating effect and improvement of alertness: Coffee is known for its caffeine content, a stimulant that can improve mental alertness, concentration, and attention.
- Increased physical performance: The caffeine in coffee can also improve physical performance by increasing the release of adrenaline, which can aid in sporting activities.
- Antioxidant effect: Coffee is an important source of antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acids, which can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, thus helping to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Protection against neurodegenerative diseases: Some studies have suggested that regular coffee consumption may be associated with a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes: There is evidence to suggest that those who consume coffee on a regular basis may have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Positive effects on cardiovascular health: Some research has found that moderate coffee consumption may be linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as stroke and heart disease.
- Liver protection: It has been observed that coffee may have beneficial effects on the liver, such as reducing the risk of liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
- Mood Improvement and Depression Prevention: The caffeine in coffee may have positive effects on mood and it has been suggested that it may help reduce the risk of developing depression.
- Possible reduction in the risk of certain types of cancer: Some studies have found an inverse association between coffee consumption and certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer and colorectal cancer.
Also, coffee may not be recommended for pregnant women or people with certain medical conditions. It is always advisable to consult a health professional to determine if coffee consumption is appropriate for each particular situation. It is also recommended to avoid excessive consumption of coffee, as it can have negative health effects.
