Study Suggests Drinking Coffee Before Exercise Helps Maximize Fat Burn

Drinking coffee has been linked to many different benefits as well as health risks. Moderate consumption in general, about 3 to 4 cups daily, is associated with a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease and liver cancer, to name a few. Research also suggests that it lengthens the life span.

A new study shows that drinking coffee half an hour before your routine exercise can help maximize your fat burn.

According to researchers, 3 milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight can increase the rate of fat burn during aerobic exercise. This was established on outcomes accumulated from 15 male volunteers. The coffee beverage exhibited an increase in maximal fat oxidation (MFO) rate by an average of 10.7% in the morning and 29% in the afternoon. It means it's lower in the morning and higher in the afternoon. 

During the four-week research, the participants underwent four tests in random order. They took a placebo and caffeine supplement at 8 am, and took another one at 8 am and at 5 pm. 

University of Granada physiologist Francisco José Amaro-Gahete said, "The recommendation to exercise on an empty stomach in the morning to increase fat oxidation is commonplace. However, this recommendation may be lacking a scientific basis, as it is unknown whether this increase is due to exercising in the morning or due to going without food for a longer period of time."

After consecutive cycling tests following the stimulant or placebo process, the fat-burning capability of the body was measured. This shows the effect that caffeine had established on MFO. It also increased the maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max). 

The study adds another scope to the inceasing discoveries scientists are making regarding how caffeine can impact the operation of both our brains and bodies. Coffee drinkers should also know that excessive consumption can trigger sleep disturbances, jittery sensations, nervousness, and heartburn.