Is coffee good for you or not? It's a question of DNA.

Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychostimulant in the world. [1] It is found, of course, in coffee and tea, but also colas, energy drinks, and chocolate, as well as in many prescription and over-the-counter medications. It is so present in our lives that we sometimes forget to ask ourselves whether it is actually good for our health. Some argue that it is, while others have the opposite opinion. [2]

Given the mountain of information available today at our fingertips, how can we make sense of these competing claims? What makes it difficult is that this organic compound affects the human body differently from person to person.

Caffeine acts not only on the central nervous system, but also on the cardiovascular system. When consumed sporadically, it increases blood pressure and dilates the blood vessels. [2] In some people, these immediate effects result in a feeling of well-being, while in others they produce uncomfortable palpitations that last several hours.

The immediate effects of caffeine are well-recognized and documented. However, questions remain regarding the impact of frequent, long-term consumption of this substance on cardiovascular health. Further research is still needed on this issue.

The effects of caffeine on the body can vary from one person to another, since each person reacts differently to this psychostimulant.

While age, addiction, smoking and the taking of medications all affect a person's reaction to caffeine, genetics are also an important piece of the puzzle. In fact, the elimination rate can be up to six times faster or slower from one individual to another, depending on their genetic code. [3]

After being absorbed by the digestive system, caffeine circulates in the blood and passes through the liver. This organ contains the CYP1A2 enzyme, whose role is to lightly transform the caffeine molecule so that the kidneys can gradually eliminate it in the urine. [2] There are different versions of CYP1A2 programmed by genes.  To simplify matters, we distinguish between a “fast” and a “slow” version.  Depending on whether you possess two fast versions, two slow versions or a combination, you will be categorized as a fast, slow or intermediate metabolizer.

This variation explains why some people absolutely cannot drink coffee several hours before bedtime, while others have no such restrictions.

It has been demonstrated that slow and intermediate metabolizers have an increased risk of hypertension and myocardial infarction if their usual caffeine intake exceeds 200 mg per day (i.e., two medium cups of filter coffee or three single espressos). In contrast, rapid metabolizers see little to no increase in their blood pressure or risk of heart attack even with a caffeine intake of 400 mg per day [2].

Therefore, a supposedly healthy intake of caffeine can sometimes put you at risk of developing chronic diseases if it doesn't meet your body's unique needs. The same is true of many other foods and medications!

In 2024, American researchers and scientists published possible links between caffeine consumption and the perceived craving. By analyzing the DNA of more than 130,000 Americans, they were able to identify the genetic sequences responsible for the desire to drink coffee, tea or soda or to eat chocolate. This suggests that each person’s genetic profile would determine whether and to what intensity they feel the need to consume these products.[4]

From a saliva sample, it is possible to determine whether a person is a slow or fast metabolizer of caffeine. A piece of information that could change the way you look, or not, at your next cup of coffee!

We offer a nutrigenomics service which can help you to eat better based on your DNA and provide you with precise dietary recommendations.

• A nutrition-focused report that outlines your response to 10 important nutrients.
• Consultation with a registered dietitian

Order you test online on BiogeniQ website or call Biron Health Group’s customer service at  1-855-943-63.