Blog
Is Cold Brew Coffee Healthy?
Cold brew coffee is produced by steeping ground beans in cold water for at least 12 hours, usually up to 24. This process makes the beverage much less acidic than hot coffee and may help prevent tooth erosion (although more research needs to be conducted). Furthermore, its lower acidity also allows it to taste smoother without as much milk, cream or sugar being required – an advantage for health conscious coffee drinkers as adding such additives adds extra calories and may alter its nutritional profile.
Recently, this drink has experienced immense growth due to its taste and purported health benefits, which include its ability to promote metabolism and lower cholesterol. Furthermore, some studies suggest its antioxidant properties help combat chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Are You Wondering If Cold Brew Coffee Is Healthy and What is the Best Way to Drink it? A recent study compared acidity, caffeine content and antioxidant activity of both regular and cold brewed coffee. They discovered that cold brew had lower acidity but higher antioxidant levels. Furthermore, its concentration of caffeine resembled hot coffee with slightly reduced levels once mixed with water or milk for diluting, providing you with a cup with slightly less caffeine content than typical cup.
Cold brew may take longer to prepare, but can be stored in your fridge for several days and conveniently enjoyed on-the-go. Furthermore, no special machine is necessary – simply brew in Mason jars or your coffeemaker at home! Tinsley recommends it.
Cold brew coffee boasts more of the compounds responsible for its distinctive taste and benefits to digestive health, like crude polysaccharides and chlorogenic acids, that contribute to its unique character while aiding immunity and digestion. Plus, cold brew contains about 60% less acidity than drip or hot coffee which makes it less acidic on stomachs with heartburn or digestive issues.
Another perk: Cold Brew Coffee can be enjoyed both black or with extra dairy, cream and/or sugar added – although due to its high concentration of coffee, if too much dairy or sweetener is added it can become an overly caloric “calorie bomb,” according to Blake. For instance, one 12-ounce serving of SToK Protein Cold Brew Coffee Espresso Creamed contains 180 calories and 19 grams of sugars which exceeds what is recommended by March of Dimes and U.S. Department of Agriculture for most adults.
To prevent overdoing the caffeine intake, start with a smaller serving and brew for shorter. Or opt for non-dairy milk with natural sweetener (honey or monk fruit drops) as this provides sweetened beverages without extra calories. And to increase nutrient content try sprinkling in some nuts or fruit!