Helsinki,  August 17 (QNA) - A new study conducted by researchers at the University of Oulu in Finland reveals that regular coffee consumption is associated with reduced body fat and lower visceral fat levels.

According to a report by the New York Post, the study surveyed over 2,200 participants regarding their dietary habits, physical activity, medical history, medication use, and daily routine, including daily coffee intake, which ranged from zero to five or more cups per day.

Following an overnight fast and coffee abstention, researchers evaluated participants' body fat percentage and muscle mass, collected blood samples, and conducted a two-hour glucose tolerance test to assess sugar metabolism.

Results demonstrated that higher coffee intake correlated with increased skeletal muscle mass, a lower total body fat percentage, and reduced visceral fat, the abdominal fat surrounding internal organs that is linked to heightened cardiovascular risks and other health complications.

Additionally, researchers observed a correlation between increased coffee consumption and lower levels of three essential branched-chain amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. Elevated levels of these amino acids are typically associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

Gender-specific variations were also noted: in men, higher coffee consumption was linked to lower fasting insulin and reduced overall insulin levels, whereas the association between coffee intake and blood sugar regulation was weaker and less distinct in women. (QNA)