Evidence supporting the use of: Coffee (mixed)
For the body system: Cortisol

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Coffee, primarily due to its caffeine content, has been scientifically studied in relation to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and cortisol secretion. Caffeine acts as a central nervous system stimulant and has been shown in multiple human studies to acutely increase cortisol levels. When consumed, especially in individuals who are not habitual caffeine users, coffee leads to a measurable rise in serum cortisol, mimicking a mild stress response. This effect is most pronounced in the morning, when baseline cortisol levels are naturally higher, and diminishes with chronic use due to tolerance. While the acute increase in cortisol can be documented, there is limited evidence that coffee consumption provides long-term support or regulation of the cortisol system; rather, it may contribute to dysregulation or heightened stress in sensitive individuals. Some research suggests that habitual coffee drinkers experience a blunted cortisol response compared to non-habitual users, indicating adaptive physiological changes. There is no strong evidence to suggest that coffee is beneficial for supporting optimal cortisol function or for treating adrenal dysfunction. The use of coffee to "support" the cortisol system is thus grounded in its known pharmacological effect (acute cortisol increase), but not in a therapeutic or regulatory sense. Overall, scientific evidence supports an effect on cortisol, but not necessarily a beneficial or supportive one for the body system.

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