SAEDNEWS: Caffeinated foods and drinks, especially coffee, are widely consumed. Although caffeine is a natural stimulant, it may reduce the absorption of nutrients like iron, leading some people to limit their intake.
According to SAEDNEWS, Caffeinated foods and beverages have become a common part of many modern diets, with coffee being one of the most popular choices. Caffeine is a natural stimulant; however, some studies suggest that it may interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, including iron. Therefore, some people are advised to avoid or limit coffee and caffeinated drinks.
Several studies have shown that coffee and other caffeinated beverages can reduce iron absorption. One study found that drinking a cup of coffee with a hamburger reduced iron absorption by 39%. Drinking tea, another known inhibitor of iron absorption, with the same meal reduced iron absorption by 64%.
Another study reported that consuming a cup of instant coffee with a bread-based meal lowered iron absorption by 60 to 90%. Stronger coffee or tea appears to have a greater effect on reducing iron absorption. However, caffeine itself may not be the only compound responsible. One study found that caffeine alone binds to only about 6% of the iron in a meal, suggesting that other components may also play a role.
In addition, regular coffee consumption may affect the body’s iron stores. A study involving older adults found that daily coffee intake was associated with a 1% reduction in ferritin levels, a protein that reflects iron storage. However, the effect of coffee and caffeine on iron absorption also depends on timing. For example, drinking coffee one hour before a meal does not appear to affect iron absorption.
