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Coffee Berry Powder

Also known as: Coffee Berry Powder, Coffee fruit powder, Coffee cherry powder, Coffeeberry extract, Coffea canephora fruit extract, Coffea arabica fruit extract

Overview

Coffee Berry Powder is a dietary supplement derived from the whole fruit (the coffee cherry) of *Coffea* species, primarily *Coffea arabica* and *Coffea canephora*. Unlike the coffee bean, the fruit contains significantly higher levels of antioxidants, particularly polyphenols and chlorogenic acids, along with caffeine, quinic acid, and diterpenes. It is marketed for its potential to support cognitive function, provide antioxidant benefits, aid in lipid metabolism, and offer neuroprotection. While research is emerging, it is considered a botanical extract rich in bioactive compounds. Its key characteristics include a high antioxidant content (up to 25-fold higher than coffee bean powder) and the ability to potentially influence brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, a protein crucial for neuronal health. The current research maturity level is moderate, with some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, though high-quality meta-analyses specifically on coffee berry powder are limited.

Benefits

Coffee Berry Powder offers several potential benefits, primarily due to its rich antioxidant profile and unique bioactive compounds. Its most notable effect is the potential to increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels. One controlled study observed a significant 143% increase in BDNF, suggesting neuroprotective and memory-supporting effects, although direct cognitive improvements are not consistently demonstrated in all studies. This neurotrophic effect is considered promising for brain health. The powder also exhibits significantly higher antioxidant activity compared to coffee bean powder, which may contribute to reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases. While some meta-analyses on berry-based supplements suggest benefits for brain perfusion and memory, these findings are not specific to coffee berry alone. Acute cognitive performance and mood improvements have not been consistently observed in short-term studies; for instance, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study found no significant improvement in mood, energy, or cognitive task performance with acute doses of 100 or 300 mg. However, a 12-week RCT administering 28 g/day of coffee pulp juice concentrate indicated safety and suggested potential, though not definitively established, effects on lipid profiles. Older adults with mild cognitive impairment might benefit from berry-based supplements, but specific evidence for coffee berry powder in this population is limited and requires further large-scale trials. Overall, while the antioxidant and BDNF-boosting properties are well-supported, direct clinical benefits on cognition or lipid metabolism require more robust and long-term research.

How it works

Coffee Berry Powder exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Its primary mechanism involves potent antioxidant activity, largely attributed to its high concentration of polyphenols and chlorogenic acids, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress throughout the body. The caffeine content provides mild central nervous system stimulation by blocking adenosine receptors, which can temporarily enhance alertness. A key mechanism is its potential to increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels, a protein vital for neuronal growth, survival, and synaptic plasticity, thereby supporting neuroprotection and potentially cognitive function. Chlorogenic acids may also play a role in modulating glucose and lipid metabolism, influencing how the body processes sugars and fats. These compounds are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with their bioavailability varying depending on the extraction method and formulation. The combined action of these bioactive compounds interacts with the central nervous system, metabolic system, and the body's antioxidant defense systems.

Side effects

Coffee Berry Powder is generally considered safe for healthy adults at the doses studied. Human trials have reported no significant common side effects. In one study, transient negative mood effects were noted at a lower dose (100 mg) but not at a higher dose (300 mg), though this was an uncommon occurrence. Rare side effects have not been reported in the current scientific literature. Due to its caffeine content, there is a potential for interactions with stimulants or medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Individuals sensitive to caffeine should exercise caution. While no specific contraindications are firmly established, its use is not recommended for pregnant women, children, or individuals with chronic diseases due to limited research in these special populations. Overall, the safety profile appears favorable, but comprehensive long-term studies and research in vulnerable populations are still needed to fully ascertain all potential risks and interactions.

Dosage

The optimal dosage for Coffee Berry Powder is not yet clearly established, as acute cognitive benefits have not been consistently demonstrated at typical doses. Studies have utilized acute doses of 100–300 mg of coffeeberry extract. For chronic use, one study safely administered up to 28 g/day of coffee pulp juice concentrate for 12 weeks. There is no established maximum safe dose, as higher doses have not been extensively studied. For acute cognitive effects, studies have typically assessed outcomes within 120 minutes post-dose, but longer-term effects on cognition or lipid metabolism require further investigation. The form of the supplement, whether an extract powder or juice concentrate, can influence its efficacy, as the extraction method affects the concentration of bioactive compounds like antioxidants. Absorption may also be influenced by co-ingestion with other phenolic compounds or the food matrix. No specific cofactors are established as necessary for its efficacy.

FAQs

Does coffee berry powder improve cognition?

Current evidence from acute dosing studies does not show significant improvements in cognitive performance or mood at typical doses (100-300 mg). While it may increase BDNF, direct cognitive benefits are not consistently demonstrated.

Is it safe to consume daily?

Yes, studies have indicated that daily consumption of coffee berry powder, even at higher doses (e.g., 28 g/day of juice concentrate), is safe for healthy adults over a 12-week period.

How does coffee berry powder compare to coffee beans?

Coffee berry powder, derived from the fruit, has significantly higher antioxidant content than coffee beans. While both contain caffeine, coffee berry powder generally has less caffeine than roasted coffee beans.

Can coffee berry powder aid in weight loss?

While some research suggests potential associations with lipid metabolism, direct evidence specifically supporting coffee berry powder for weight loss is currently lacking and requires further investigation.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10254646/ – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study found that acute doses of 100 or 300 mg of coffeeberry extract did not significantly improve mood, energy, or cognitive performance in healthy adults. Some transient negative effects were noted at the 100 mg dose.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10097379/ – This 12-week randomized controlled trial demonstrated the safety of consuming 28 g/day of coffee pulp juice concentrate in healthy volunteers, with no adverse effects on liver, kidney, or cardiovascular markers. It also suggested potential, though not definitive, effects on lipid profiles.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-07302-4 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of berry supplements indicated that berry consumption can improve brain perfusion and memory in adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment. However, direct evidence specifically for coffee berry was limited within this broader review.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-to-know-about-coffee-fruit – This source highlights that coffee fruit extract can increase Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels, with one study showing a 143% increase. This suggests a potential neuroprotective effect, although direct cognitive outcomes were not always significant in related studies.