B2 – Upper Intermediate
Recent research published in Nature Microbiology reveals that coffee consumption supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Analyzing stool samples from nearly 22,867 participants, the study found that coffee drinkers had higher levels of the beneficial bacterium Lachnospiraceae asaccharolyticus. Coffee’s polyphenols, including chlorogenic and quinic acid, may act as prebiotics, encouraging the growth of good bacteria in the gut. A diverse microbiome is crucial for overall health, influencing immune cells, digestion, and potentially impacting conditions like obesity and heart disease.
Read the article to know why moderate coffee consumption, even with added milk or sugar, can promote beneficial gut bacteria.
https://www.foodandwine.com/coffee-gut-health-benefits-11693595
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “eye-opening” mean? “Recent research found a surprising link between coffee and gut health, and the findings are eye-opening.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
- Explain “gut health”. “As if coffee drinkers needed another excuse to keep brewing their favorite cup, new research suggests that coffee is beneficial for gut health.” Use it in a sentence.
- Explain the word “tout”. “Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, coffee has long been touted for its many health benefits.” Use it in a sentence and give two synonyms.
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever noticed any changes in your digestion or gut health after drinking coffee regularly? Talk about it.
- Knowing that coffee may act as a prebiotic, do you think this will change how much or how often you drink it? Why or why not?
- Since coffee can support beneficial gut bacteria, do you think adding probiotics or fiber-rich foods to your diet could enhance the effect? Explain.
- Some people experience stomach discomfort from coffee—do you think the benefits outweigh the potential downsides for gut health? Explain.
- What are other ways to promote good gut health?