Coffee lovers, beware – how you make your daily brew could have a surprising impact on your cholesterol levels. Recent research has revealed that certain compounds found in coffee, known as diterpenes, can potentially raise levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol in the blood. Among these diterpenes, cafestol and kahweol have been identified as culprits linked to heightened LDL cholesterol levels.
Swedish researchers delved into the brewing methods of various coffee machines to uncover the levels of these cholesterol-elevating substances. The study pinpointed boiling as the worst method for retaining high diterpene levels, while filtering the coffee emerged as a simple yet effective solution to counteract this risk. Interestingly, coffee machines commonly used in workplaces were identified as significant contributors to elevated diterpene content in coffee.
David Iggman, a clinical nutritionist involved in the study, emphasized the pivotal role of the filtering process in determining the presence of these harmful substances in coffee. The team’s calculations highlighted the potential health benefits of switching to paper-filtered coffee, showcasing a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels that could translate to a substantial decrease in the risk of cardiovascular disease over time.
The researchers meticulously analyzed samples from a variety of coffee machines and brewing techniques, comparing them to manual brewing methods like drip-brew and French press. Results indicated that manual brewing generally yielded lower diterpene levels compared to machine-brewed coffee, with paper-filtered drip brews emerging as the most favorable option in terms of minimizing cholesterol-elevating compounds.
While the study acknowledged certain limitations, such as sample size and unaccounted variables like water pressure and filter pore size, it shed light on the broader landscape of coffee’s health implications. Coffee consumption has long been a subject of scientific inquiry, with findings often presenting a mixed bag of health effects. Previous studies have suggested that moderate coffee intake could confer protective benefits against various diseases, including dementia, Parkinson’s, and certain cancers.
Despite the conflicting nature of coffee research, the current study underscores the importance of brewing methods in shaping the health impact of this beloved beverage. For avid coffee drinkers, opting for well-filtered varieties like drip-filter coffee may offer a healthier alternative to mitigate potential cholesterol-related risks.
Ultimately, the way you brew your coffee could hold more significance than you might have realized, not just for your morning ritual but for your long-term well-being. As the science of coffee continues to evolve, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the journey from bean to cup can have profound implications for your health.
🔗 Reddit Discussions
- Boiled coffee in a pot contains high levels of the worst of cholesterol-elevating substances. Coffee from most coffee machines in workplaces also contains high levels of cholesterol-elevating substances. However, regular paper filter coffee makers filter out most of these substances, finds study.
- Super cheap and super strong/delicious coffee: $7 coffee maker that makes 6 servings at once and lasts years, $3 tub of grounds that can last months, no paper filters, just water and sugar. Instructions on how to make a Café Cubano in comments!
- Wet wipes > toilet paper > napkins > paper towels > coffee filters > my new low as of this morning.