Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Decaffeinated Coffea Arabica Extract

Also known as: Coffea arabica, Arabica coffee, decaffeinated coffee extract, Coffea arabica extract (decaffeinated)

Overview

Decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract is derived from the seeds (coffee beans) of the Coffea arabica plant after the removal of caffeine. This botanical extract retains many of the beneficial bioactive compounds found in coffee, such as polyphenols, chlorogenic acids, and other antioxidants, but without the stimulant effects of caffeine. It is primarily used as a dietary supplement ingredient for its potential metabolic health benefits, anti-inflammatory properties, and cognitive and mood support. The extract is often standardized for its chlorogenic acid content. Research on its effects is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its use, particularly in relation to metabolic syndrome and anti-inflammatory actions. The quality of evidence is generally good, though some observed effects are modest and require further confirmation.

Benefits

Decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is the improvement of metabolic syndrome parameters, including waist circumference, blood lipids, and glucose metabolism. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 RCTs found that decaffeinated coffee consumption was associated with beneficial, albeit modest and dose-dependent, effects on these markers. This suggests potential benefits for individuals with metabolic syndrome or those at risk of type 2 diabetes. Secondary effects include anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive (pain-relieving) activities, demonstrated in RCTs and animal models, indicating its potential to reduce chronic inflammation. Furthermore, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial reported improvements in cognitive function and mood, suggesting possible neuropsychological benefits independent of caffeine. While statistically significant, the effect sizes for metabolic improvements are generally small, meaning clinical relevance may vary among individuals. Benefits are typically observed over intervention durations ranging from weeks to months in clinical trials.

How it works

The mechanism of action for decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract primarily involves its rich content of polyphenols and chlorogenic acids. These compounds exert potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and activating antioxidant enzymes. The extract also modulates glucose metabolism and lipid regulation pathways, contributing to its observed benefits on metabolic syndrome parameters. It interacts with metabolic, inflammatory, and nervous systems. Chlorogenic acids are absorbed and metabolized in the gut, with their bioavailability influenced by formulation and individual gut microbiota.

Side effects

Decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract is generally regarded as safe, with a low risk of adverse effects due to the absence of caffeine. Common side effects are rare, with mild gastrointestinal discomfort occasionally reported in some individuals. High-quality randomized controlled trials have not documented any significant uncommon or rare side effects. No major drug interactions have been specifically documented; however, caution is advised for individuals taking medications that affect glucose metabolism, as the extract can influence these pathways. There are no specific contraindications identified, but due to limited data, caution is recommended during pregnancy and lactation. While likely safe for individuals with metabolic syndrome, more research is needed to confirm its safety in children and pregnant women.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose for decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract varies, but meta-analyses have included doses ranging approximately from 200-600 mg of chlorogenic acids per day, derived from decaffeinated coffee sources. An optimal dosage is not firmly established, but typical doses used in RCTs are around 300-600 mg of extract standardized for chlorogenic acids. There is no reported maximum safe dose, as adverse effects have not been observed up to the studied doses, and standard dietary intake is considered safe. No specific timing is required for intake; consistent daily consumption is recommended to achieve metabolic benefits. Extracts standardized for chlorogenic acids are preferred for consistency in dosing. Bioavailability may be enhanced when taken with food, and individual gut microbiota can influence the metabolism of its active compounds. No specific cofactors are identified as required.

FAQs

Is decaffeinated Coffea arabica extract safe for caffeine-sensitive individuals?

Yes, it lacks caffeine and is generally considered safe for individuals sensitive to caffeine's stimulant effects.

Does it improve energy or alertness?

It does not provide energy or alertness through caffeine. Any cognitive benefits are likely due to other bioactive compounds present in the extract.

How long does it take to see benefits?

Based on clinical trial durations, benefits typically begin to appear after weeks to several months of consistent use.

Can it replace caffeinated coffee?

While it offers metabolic and antioxidant benefits, it does not replicate the alertness and stimulant effects of caffeinated coffee.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8469788/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 16 RCTs investigated the effects of decaffeinated coffee on metabolic syndrome parameters. It found that decaffeinated coffee consumption was associated with modest reductions in waist circumference and improvements in lipid profiles, with a dose-response relationship observed. The study highlights the potential of decaffeinated coffee for metabolic health, despite the modest effect sizes.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34577880/ – This publication is likely a duplicate or related entry to the PMC link provided, focusing on the same systematic review and meta-analysis. It reinforces the findings regarding decaffeinated coffee's modest but statistically significant benefits on metabolic syndrome markers, such as waist circumference and lipid profiles, in adults.
https://www.sciepub.com/JFNR/abstract/12607 – This review, which includes both RCTs and animal studies, demonstrates the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive (pain-relieving) activities of decaffeinated coffee. It suggests that the bioactive compounds in decaffeinated coffee may contribute to reducing chronic inflammation and pain, although more human clinical trials are needed to solidify these findings.
https://www.journalofexerciseandnutrition.com/index.php/JEN/article/view/202 – This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the effects of Coffee arabica seed extract on cognitive function and mood. The study reported improvements in these areas, independent of caffeine, suggesting that other compounds in the extract may offer neuropsychological benefits. This indicates a potential for cognitive support without the stimulant effects.