How Your Coffee Brewing Method Impacts Heart Health
Did you know that the way you brew your coffee can significantly affect your heart health? A new study from Sweden has identified the healthiest coffee brewing method by examining the levels of cholesterol-raising compounds found in different brewing techniques.
The Hidden Culprit in Your Coffee
Certain coffee brewing methods contain diterpenes—compounds known to elevate cholesterol levels. Research has shown that boiled coffee, such as Turkish coffee, contains high levels of these substances, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Swedish Study: Measuring Coffee’s Health Impact
Researchers from Uppsala University investigated the levels of diterpenes in various coffee samples brewed in public places, including hospital break rooms. Their goal was to assess how different coffee machines impact cholesterol-elevating compounds compared to paper-filtered coffee.
Testing 14 Brewing Methods
The study analyzed coffee brewed using 14 different methods, including:
- Espresso makers
- French press
- Boiling methods (like Turkish coffee)
- Pour-over coffee using fabric filters
- Commercial brewing machines
- Percolators
- Drip-filter coffee (paper-filtered)
Which Coffee Brewing Method is the Healthiest?
The study found that boiled coffee contained the highest levels of diterpenes per cup. Some espresso samples also had significant levels, though the results varied. Here’s how the brewing methods ranked from highest to lowest in diterpene content:
- Boiled coffee (highest diterpene levels)
- Espresso (varied but sometimes high levels)
- Commercial brewing machines
- Percolator coffee
- French press coffee
- Paper-filtered coffee (lowest diterpene levels)
Why Paper-Filtered Coffee is the Best Choice
According to lead researcher David Iggman, “Most of the coffee samples contained levels that could affect LDL cholesterol and increase cardiovascular disease risk.” However, paper-filtered coffee removes the majority of these cholesterol-raising compounds, making it the healthiest option.
How Switching to Paper-Filtered Coffee Benefits Your Heart
The study estimated that replacing three cups of machine-brewed coffee with paper-filtered coffee, five days a week, could reduce LDL cholesterol levels by:
- 13% over five years
- 36% over 40 years
These findings suggest that if you’re a heavy coffee drinker, switching to drip-filtered coffee could be a simple yet effective way to improve your heart health.
Final Thoughts: Make a Heart-Healthy Coffee Choice
If you’re concerned about heart health, your best bet is to choose coffee that has been thoroughly filtered. While espresso and other methods may still be enjoyable, limiting consumption or opting for paper-filtered coffee can help keep your cholesterol in check.
FAQs
1. Which coffee brewing method is the healthiest?
Paper-filtered coffee is the healthiest as it removes most cholesterol-raising diterpenes.
2. Does espresso raise cholesterol?
Espresso contains some diterpenes, but levels vary depending on the preparation method.
3. Is French press coffee bad for heart health?
French press coffee contains moderate levels of diterpenes, which can raise LDL cholesterol over time.
4. Can switching coffee brewing methods lower cholesterol?
Yes! Switching from machine-brewed or boiled coffee to paper-filtered coffee can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol.
5. How often should I drink paper-filtered coffee for heart benefits?
Drinking paper-filtered coffee regularly instead of high-diterpene options can contribute to long-term cardiovascular health benefits.
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