Can a Natural Molecule from Coffee Improve Muscle Function in Aging?
If I told you that a cup of coffee could make you stronger, would you laugh or call me ridiculous?
Well, it turns out there's some truth to it.
Hear me out for a second!
Trigonelline, a compound found in coffee, decreases in our bodies as we age.
However, increasing its levels can enhance physical performance.
Researchers from Nestlé Research in Switzerland and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore (NUS Medicine) with other institutions, have discovered that trigonelline can help combat SARCOPENIA!
No, that’s not a new cuss word (though it sounds like it could be).
It’s actually much worse—it refers to the gradual loss of muscle mass and function, a significant health issue, especially among older adults.
Scary, huh?
But, the really cool thing is, that Trigonelline is not only found in the body but also in foods like coffee and fenugreek seeds.
And if you’re thinking…
I’ve got you covered.
I’m gonna get a tad bit technical here!
As we age, our cells change, including reduced mitochondrial function and lower levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a molecule essential for energy production.
These changes lead to muscle weakening.
The researchers found that lower trigonelline levels are linked to sarcopenia in older people.
In studies with animals, giving trigonelline helped improve some effects of sarcopenia.
It increased NAD+ levels, boosted mitochondrial activity, and helped maintain muscle function.
This suggests that trigonelline could be used as a supplement to help prevent muscle decline with age.
Now, let’s quickly look at the key findings of the study!
- In the tiny worm C. elegans, trigonelline improved mitochondrial function, reduced muscle loss, and increased lifespan and mobility.
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In male mice, trigonelline improved muscle strength and reduced fatigue.
These results are a clear indication that trigonelline could be a useful supplement for addressing age-related muscle decline.
So, the question is: will drinking coffee alone suffice?
Because, in that case, I’m sold, I could dive right in!
But, unfortunately, that is not the case!
Drinking coffee alone won’t be enough, but trigonelline supplements might help.
This molecule plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and aging processes.
Assistant Professor Vincenzo Sorrentino from NUS Medicine said: “Our findings show that trigonelline is a new way to boost NAD+ levels. This could lead to new treatments for healthy aging and age-related diseases.”
“We found that a natural molecule from food can interact with key aging processes. The benefits of trigonelline on cell metabolism and muscle health during aging are very promising,” said Jerome Feige, Head of the Physical Health department at Nestlé Research.
While we may not be able to rely solely on our morning brew to turn us into muscle-bound superheroes, there's undeniable potential in the power of trigonelline.
So, next time you sip your coffee or sprinkle fenugreek seeds on your salad, remember you’re not just indulging in a tasty treat—you're giving your muscles a little extra love.
But let's not forget: no supplement can replace the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
With more research and development, who knows?
Maybe one day we’ll have coffee-flavored fenugreek supplements lining our shelves, offering a tasty and effective way to combat the woes of aging muscles.
Until then, keep sipping, keep moving, and keep believing in the magic of science and a good cup of joe.