, May 4 -- Scientists have found new evidence that coffee may do more than boost energy, suggesting it can also influence gut bacteria and affect mood, stress levels and brain function.

The research, carried out by APC Microbiome Ireland at University College Cork, is among the first to closely examine how coffee interacts with the "gut-brain axis", the communication system linking the digestive system and the brain. The study was published in *Nature Communications* and supported by the Institute for Scientific Information on Coffee.

Researchers say both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee may help shape the gut microbiome and bring changes in emotional wellbeing.

Study looks at coffee, gut bacteria and mental health

The study compa...