Chlorogenic Acid in Whole Body and Tissue-Specific Glucose Regulation

Abstract Chlorogenic acids (CGA) are a predominant class of phenolic acids found in coffee. CGA have substantial biological activities and may be responsible for the beneficial effects of coffee on glucose regulation and the development of type 2 diabetes. This chapter reviews the impact of CGA on whole body and tissue specific glucose regulation. Upon consumption, small amounts of CGA are absorbed in the small intestine where it inhibits Na + -dependent glucose absorption and enhances the release of gastric inhibitory polypeptide, a gut hormone known to potentiate insulin secretion. Effects are also observed in the liver where CGA reduces net hepatic glucose output through inhibition of glucose-6-phosphatase. CGA remaining in the intestine can be metabolized in the colon. Here, CGA has the potential to alter the balance of gut microbiota. In summary, CGA can potentially alter both meal responsiveness and impacts long-term glucose regulation through multiple biochemical mechanisms.