A cup of coffee may do more than just add energy to one's morning. Researchers have found evidence that suggests coffee may help fight cavities.
The roasted beans that coffee is derived from contain an antibacterial agent that keeps a key bacteria in cavity formation at bay.
Decaffeinated coffee was slightly more effective than regular, caffeinated coffee, but the researchers, led by Gabriella Gazzani of the University of Pavia, said in the Feb. 27 issue of the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry that caffeine is not the bacteria- fighting agent.
The cavity-fighting powers of coffee are thought to be a result of trigonelline, a compound that contributes to the aroma and flavor of coffee.
The study was conducted in test-tubes, not in animals, so the findings are not conclusive.
