Caffeine-rich beverages have become a daily ritual and soothing cup in the afternoon for many. Coffee’s antioxidant content enhances mental focus, physical endurance and mood enhancement as well as helping lower the risk of heart disease; yet some studies raise concerns over its caffeine content leading to raised blood pressure or other side effects; others worry about acrylamide which forms when coffee beans are heated at high temperatures for roasting.

Answering whether brewed or instant coffee is healthier depends on multiple factors, including temperature, grind size, water quality and the brewing process itself. According to Chris Clark of Brew Coffee at Home, light roast finely ground beans brewed using fresh filtered water that’s just below boiling are considered most nutritious for extraction of essential nutrients without overheating and burning up the grounds, according to this method. The water must also remain at the right temperature so as to extract flavor while protecting the grounds without boiling too quickly and burning off flavor and nutrients in this method of extraction process, says Chris Clark.

Espresso-like brews tend to have shorter brewing times and lower caffeine levels than any other style, according to Dr. Smith. Furthermore, those who prioritize health-focused coffee beverages typically opt for beans grown at high altitude that contain higher amounts of polyphenols that provide more benefits.

Make a healthier cup of coffee by limiting your sugar and other additives, like cream and syrup, which may increase calorie and sugar consumption and lead to obesity and diabetes. In addition, they may inhibit polyphenol absorption.

Instant coffee is produced by mixing pre-ground, dehydrated, freeze-dried or freeze-thawed beans with hot water before packaging it for consumption. Instant coffee’s primary advantage is convenience; it makes an ideal option if you don’t have access to good quality brewed coffee. Unfortunately, its flavor often falls below par and may contain strong or bitter notes; in addition, added ingredients may block polyphenol benefits as well as saturated and trans fats that could compromise its benefits.

For optimal health benefits, coffee should be served black for maximum polyphenol absorption. Three to four 8-ounce cups daily is generally considered safe; this may vary depending on an individual. Although drinking more than three 8-ounce cups a day has been linked with liver cancer risk reduction, studies suggest it can raise cholesterol and blood pressure, posing additional heart risks.

While most coffee experts agree that brewed is healthier than instant, instant has its place too. A cardiologist, for instance, suggests drinking three to five cups of brewed daily for optimal health benefits – so long as no too much milk, sugar, or other additives are added! You should also explore various brewing methods like French press, automatic drip brewing pod brewing or cold brew until you find one you prefer!