How Long Does Coffee Suppress Appetite?

crazy by Editorial Staff | Updated on April 26th, 2023

Are you looking for a natural way to curb your cravings and manage your weight?


Look no further than your morning cup of joe! In fact, coffee can suppress appetite for hours. But just how long does the effect last?

Photo young african american man relaxing while drinking a cup of coffee at a coffee shop.

Keep reading to find out.

Myths and truths about the effect of coffee on hunger

Caffeine, in particular, has shown inconsistent effects on appetite and energy intake in different studies.

However, it’s important to note that the effects of caffeine on appetite and metabolism can vary depending on the individual and the type of coffee consumed. Before we dive into how long coffee suppresses appetite, here are some myths and truths about coffee and its role in hunger suppression. 

Myths

One common myth is that caffeine in coffee can directly lead to weight loss. While caffeine does have appetite-suppressing effects, there is no scientific proof that it leads to long-term weight loss.

Another misconception is that drinking coffee on an empty stomach can make you feel less hungry. In fact, coffee can actually promote gastric emptying, leading to increased hunger. 

Truths

There is evidence that caffeinated coffee can influence appetite. As a matter of fact, research has shown that caffeine can reduce levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin, leading to a decrease in appetite.

The phytochemical compounds in coffee, such as chlorogenic acids, may also play a role in decreasing hunger. Additionally, caffeine can raise the body’s metabolism, leading to a brief period of diminished hunger.  

How long does coffee suppress appetite?

Caffeine can temporarily suppress appetite. However, although it can make you feel less hungry, it’s important to note that its half-life is typically 4 to 6 hours, meaning its effects may wear off relatively quickly.

Hence, caffeine’s effects on hunger are relatively short-lived, lasting for only a few hours. Thus, consuming coffee every few hours may be necessary to maintain appetite control throughout the day.

Additionally, adding sugar, cream, or other sweeteners to coffee can undermine its appetite-suppressing effects, therefore, it is best to consume black coffee or with minimal additives to fully benefit from its potential appetite-suppressant properties.

Timing is everything: when to consume coffee for appetite suppression

Decaffeinated coffee has been found to result in significantly lower hunger levels compared to regular coffee. Timing is also crucial when it comes to coffee’s appetite-suppressing abilities, as studies have shown that coffee administered 3-4.5 hours before a meal has minimal influence on food intake. 

In fact, research shows that caffeine’s hunger-reducing effects are most dominant when consumed 30-60 minutes before meals. This timing also allows the body enough time to metabolize the caffeine and increase metabolism, which in turn suppresses the appetite. 

Conclusion: unlocking the secrets to appetite control with coffee.

Coffee can be a useful tool for appetite suppression when used in the right way. By understanding the science of appetite suppression and factors that affect coffee’s abilities, individuals can unlock the secrets to controlling their appetite with coffee.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns. The author and publisher are not liable for any actions taken based on this article.

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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.

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Editorial Staff

The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.