Source: University of Oulu / European Journal of Nutrition
Author: Qahwa World
Date: August 31, 2026

Finnish Study: Coffee’s Effects on Sex Hormones in Men and Women

Finnish study links regular coffee consumption to healthier body composition in both sexes.
Significant increase in total testosterone and SHBG in men.
Increased SHBG and decreased free androgens in women.
Lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in both sexes.
Lower BCAAs indicate reduced risk of insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease.
The study included over 2,200 participants aged 46.

A new scientific study by researchers at the University of Oulu in Finland has found that regular coffee consumption is linked to healthier body composition. Coffee drinkers had lower stored fat and greater muscle mass compared to non-drinkers. The study also revealed surprising hormonal effects that differ between men and women.

The study was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. It analyzed data from over 2,200 participants aged 46. The research team examined the relationship between coffee consumption, heart health indicators, metabolic outcomes, and sex hormone levels.

A Hormonal Signature Linked to Coffee

The results revealed a “hormonal signature” linked to coffee. The strongest effects were seen in men. Coffee consumption was associated with improved glucose and insulin regulation. Men also showed higher levels of total testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

In women, coffee was linked to increased SHBG and decreased free androgens. These hormones are responsible for libido, mood, and the health of the body, hair, and bones.

**Hormonal Effects of Coffee by Gender**
Gender	Hormonal Effect
Men	Increased total testosterone, increased SHBG, improved glucose and insulin regulation
Women	Increased SHBG, decreased free androgens

Hormonal Changes Independent of Lifestyle

Lead researcher Luca Viruisti, a nutrition specialist, explained that these hormonal changes remained significant even after excluding lifestyle factors and body mass index. This suggests coffee has a direct effect on the hormonal system, not just a result of other healthy habits.

Lower Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

The results showed lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) in the blood of coffee drinkers of both sexes. Researchers noted that lower levels of these amino acids are a positive indicator. Chronic elevation of BCAAs is linked to risks of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and declining liver health.

**Benefits of Lower Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)**
Risks Linked to High BCAAs	Benefits of Lower BCAAs
Insulin resistance	Improved insulin sensitivity
Type 2 diabetes	Lower diabetes risk
Heart disease	Lower cardiovascular risk
Declining liver health	Improved liver function

Conclusion: Coffee’s Divergent Hormonal Effects

The study confirms that coffee has hormonal effects that differ between men and women. For men, coffee appears supportive of testosterone levels and metabolic health. For women, it may be linked to hormonal changes that affect libido and mood.

On the positive side, coffee was linked to lower branched-chain amino acids in both sexes. This reduction may contribute to lowering the risks of insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease. Further studies are needed to understand the precise mechanisms behind these effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does coffee raise testosterone in men?Yes, the study showed significant increases in total testosterone and SHBG levels in men who regularly consume coffee.

How does coffee affect hormones in women?In women, coffee was linked to increased SHBG and decreased free androgens, which are responsible for libido, mood, and body, hair, and bone health.

What are branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)?They are amino acids whose elevated levels are linked to risks of insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease. The study showed lower levels in coffee drinkers.

Are coffee’s hormonal effects dependent on lifestyle?No, the study showed that hormonal effects remained significant even after excluding lifestyle factors and body mass index.

How many participants were in the study?The study included over 2,200 participants aged 46, giving the results good statistical power.

Where was the study published?The study was published in the European Journal of Nutrition, a peer-reviewed scientific journal specializing in nutrition and health.

Dubai, September 1, 2025 (Qahwa World) – The annual Grounds for Health Auction will return on Thursday, September 18, offering roasters around the world the chance to acquire rare, high-quality green coffees and specialty equipment while directly supporting lifesaving women’s health programs in coffee-growing communities.

This year’s auction features contributions from some of the most renowned farms in the coffee industry. Among the highlights are a washed Geisha “Guabo” lot from Hacienda La Esmeralda in Panama, exceptional coffees from Finca El Injerto in Guatemala, and Hacienda La Minita in Costa Rica. The catalog also includes premium offerings from major traders such as Walker Coffee Trading, Keffa Coffee, and San Cristobal Coffee Importers, in addition to professional coffee equipment.

All proceeds from the auction go directly to Grounds for Health, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing and detecting cervical cancer in coffee-producing regions. The group currently operates programs in Ethiopia and Kenya, where cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women, despite being entirely preventable with early screening.

“When we invest in women’s health, we invest in the future of coffee itself. Healthy women farmers mean thriving families, sustainable farms, and the exceptional coffee quality our industry depends on,” said Justin Mool, Auction Manager at Grounds for Health.

Since its launch in 2009, the auction has raised more than $1 million to fund its health initiatives. Past editions have featured notable contributions from farms such as Hacienda El Roble in Colombia and Daterra Coffee in Brazil, along with strong support from traders including Walker Coffee Trading. In the 2024 auction, nearly thirty lots of specialty coffee were offered, underlining the ongoing commitment of the global coffee community to this cause.

Roasters and industry participants can register through the official auction website to bid on coffee or equipment, or to make direct donations. Shipping costs are not included in the winning bids and must be arranged separately.

Tag: Women’s Health

Coffee’s Effects on Sex Hormones in Men and Women