Are you someone who only gets going in the morning after five cups of coffee? Or don’t you need caffeine to start the day? Either way, the amount of coffee you drink is partly determined by your genes. It differs per person how you react to a cup of coffee.
Coffee genes
Some people can drink a strong espresso at eleven o’clock at night and sleep like a baby. Others then lie awake all night. And that is not surprising at all when you consider that how sensitive you are to caffeine is partly determined genetically.
A total of six coffee genes have been discovered. Two of these have to do with the way the body processes caffeine. Two other genes determine whether caffeine gives you a boost or whether it makes you sluggish. These determine whether you are still sleepy after four bins or whether you are tense from the caffeine. The last two genes have to do with the processing of fats and sugar. These determine whether you like coffee or are disgusted by the bitter aftertaste. Your genes also determine whether you will experience side effects from caffeine, such as a restless feeling, insomnia or nausea.
In short, your love for coffee (or lack thereof) was determined before you were even born.
Practice makes perfect
However, there is a small side note, because there are also other things that influence that cup of coffee. The more coffee you drink, the better your body can handle it. So it could also be years of training that has ensured that your father is still quietly drinking an espresso at eleven o’clock in the evening.
