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Is Coffee Or Espresso Healthier?
Coffee drinkers tend to appreciate both drip joe and espresso; each offering its own health benefits; however, their respective effects depend on individual brewing methods, serving sizes, and stomach sensitivities.
Differences Between Espresso and Coffee Both espresso and coffee contain antioxidants, though their amounts vary depending on how the beans are prepared. Roast level, soil quality, age of beans and how ground grounds are ground can all have an effect on antioxidant levels according to research. Drip/pour-over coffee tend to offer higher amounts of vitamins and minerals while espresso may only offer small amounts.
Drip and pour-over coffee involve slowly pouring hot water or steam over finely ground beans for an extended period of time, while espresso requires special machines to produce. Espresso involves forcing boiling water or steam under pressure through finely ground beans to create a thicker liquid with an abundance of crema on top. Espresso shots typically come in small shot sizes and can be made using any variety of coffee bean.
While both brewed and espresso contain caffeine, espresso’s higher caffeine concentration per serving due to the brewing process makes it much more potent; for instance, one typical 2-ounce cup of espresso contains 5.4 milligrams while an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee only has 2.4 milligrams. If you are worried about how much caffeine you are consuming, opt for decaf coffee which still contains some stimulant effects without becoming an addiction.
Coffee or espresso may be best for your stomach depending on many factors, including your genes, susceptibility to caffeine, natural enzymes and stomach acid production. To minimize acidity in your brew, select dark-roasted beans which naturally contain compounds which reduce stomach acid. Adding dairy or nondairy milk may help as well. Also try not drinking on an empty stomach and consider cutting back your serving sizes accordingly if your digestive tract is sensitive.
At its core, any beverage should form part of your healthy lifestyle rather than simply be an energy boost in the morning. Both brewed and espresso coffee can provide valuable antioxidants, calcium, magnesium and potassium and may reduce heart disease risk factors. But remember both can add extra calories and fat, so be mindful about how much you drink! To further complement its nutritional benefits pair your coffee consumption with protein-rich food items – don’t forget water as well!