Many individuals recognize coffee beans, yet the coffee fruit remains relatively obscure. (Coffee cherry), the fruit that comes from the same plant as the coffee bean, has traditionally been discarded during the coffee production process. However, it has recently gained popularity in the health and wellness sector, being hailed as a fashionable superfood appearing in a variety of products including supplements, juices, and herbal teas. This article delves into the nutritional profile and health advantages of coffee fruit, as well as common methods to incorporate it into your daily meals.

The Coffee Fruit

The coffee fruit, a fascinating type of stone fruit produced by the coffee plant, is often known by various names such as coffee cherry or coffee berry. These fruits are generally small and green, but as they mature, they transition to a vibrant deep red or purple hue. Within this fruit, you will find the coffee bean, which is technically classified as a seed. Traditionally, during the coffee production process, the beans are extracted, leaving the fruit to be discarded.

However, emerging research highlighting its potential health benefits has led to a resurgence in the use of coffee fruit as a popular ingredient in supplements and beverages. No longer just a byproduct of coffee production, the coffee fruit is now being celebrated for its nutritional value and versatility in various culinary applications.

Health Benefits

The fruit derived from coffee may offer a multitude of health advantages.

Rich in Antioxidants

Coffee fruit is packed with beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols. These antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing harmful substances known as free radicals, which can contribute to cellular damage and chronic diseases if left unchecked over time. Notably, the fruit contains high levels of antioxidant compounds, including rutin, chlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid , and gallic acid.

A small-scale study involving 20 athletes revealed that a daily intake of 800 mg of coffee fruit extract over four weeks led to improved antioxidant status. Moreover, earlier test-tube and animal studies suggested that this extract could enhance immune function and inhibit cancer cell proliferation, presumably due to its rich antioxidant profile. It is important to note that further research is warranted to understand how the antioxidants present in coffee fruit may impact human health. Additionally, the method of processing can greatly influence the antioxidant levels in coffee fruit products. For instance, a test-tube study indicated that the antioxidant activity of extracts could be up to 25 times greater than that of powders.

Potential Brain Health Benefits

Emerging studies suggest that coffee fruit might play a protective role in brain function and slow down the aging process. For instance, research involving 71 older adults with mild cognitive decline indicated that consuming coffee fruit extract for 28 days significantly improved reaction times.

Another small study found that a dosage of 100 mg of coffee fruit concentrate led to a remarkable 143% increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels—an essential protein for the survival and growth of neuronal cells—within just two hours. Furthermore, a review encompassing 15 studies highlighted that individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease typically exhibit lower levels of BDNF, suggesting that coffee fruit concentrate could be instrumental in managing or treating this condition. Nonetheless, additional research is essential to fully comprehend the potential benefits of coffee fruit for brain health.

May Aid in Fat Loss

Although research on this subject remains limited, some studies indicate that coffee fruit and its constituents might assist in fat loss. For example, a test-tube study demonstrated that coffee fruit extract facilitated the breakdown of fat cells while inhibiting the creation of new fat cells. Rich in chlorogenic acid, coffee fruit has garnered attention for its potential to promote weight loss and enhance fat oxidation. In a six-week study involving mice on a high-fat diet, chlorogenic acid was effective in preventing both weight and fat gain.

Similarly, a 12-week study with 150 overweight participants found that consuming coffee enriched with chlorogenic acid led to significant reductions in both overall body fat and abdominal fat compared to a control group. However, it is crucial to note that current research primarily consists of test-tube and animal studies focused on highly concentrated extracts. Ultimately, more comprehensive studies are needed to ascertain how the consumption of coffee fruit may influence weight and fat loss in humans.

In summary, coffee fruit is rich in antioxidants and may provide benefits for brain health and fat loss. Nevertheless, further human studies are necessary.

Potential Drawbacks

Although research surrounding the long-term safety of coffee fruit remains somewhat limited, it is broadly acknowledged that moderate consumption is generally safe. In an intriguing animal study, coffee fruit was found to be well-tolerated by rats, showing no adverse effects even when administered in relatively high doses.

It is important to remember that coffee fruit does contain caffeine. The caffeine content can vary depending on the specific product, dosage, and formulation, but on average, most products provide about 5–20 mg of caffeine per serving. This amount is considerably lower than that found in regular coffee, which typically offers around 96 mg of caffeine per 240 mL cup. However, for those who are sensitive to caffeine or are trying to reduce their intake, this is an important consideration. Overall, coffee fruit is generally regarded as safe when consumed in moderation, but it is essential to acknowledge that each serving does contain a modest amount of caffeine.

Uses

Coffee fruit is readily accessible in health stores and pharmacies, presenting itself in various forms such as liquid extracts, tablets, and capsules. This fruit is often incorporated into dietary supplements that claim to enhance brain health and boost energy levels, usually in combination with other fruit extracts.

Research indicates that daily doses ranging from 100 to 800 mg are generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it is important to note that there is currently no officially recommended dosage for these supplements. Furthermore, coffee fruit is frequently included in beverages like juice blends and is also utilized in making coffee cherry tea (known as cascara), a unique herbal tea crafted from the dehydrated skins of the coffee fruit.

In addition to its dietary uses, coffee fruit is found in certain skin care products, where it may be applied topically to alleviate inflammation and enhance skin texture. Nevertheless, further research is essential to fully understand how coffee fruit contributes to skin health. If you have existing health conditions or are currently on medication, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating coffee fruit into your regimen.

In summary, coffee fruit is broadly available in supplement form and frequently appears in various drinks, including juices and herbal teas, while also being added to some skin care formulations.

The Final Verdict

The coffee fruit, known as kafa phala in Hindi, originates from the coffee plant and is gaining recognition for its potential health benefits. Research indicates that this fruit is packed with antioxidants, which may enhance cognitive function and assist in weight management. Available in a variety of forms, coffee fruit is commonly consumed as a supplement or incorporated into herbal teas and juices. However, it’s important to note that studies exploring the safety and long-term health implications of coffee fruit consumption are still limited. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Essential Supplement Shopping Tips

• How to Select Premium Quality Vitamins and Supplements
• Mastering Supplement Label Reading