No matter if it’s served hot or iced, we all recognize coffee’s healthful properties as an invigorating beverage. Studies have linked it with decreased risks for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Its antioxidants also fight inflammation while protecting brain health – but which option is healthier – cold brew or iced coffee?

Cold brew coffee may be healthier because it has less acidity. Cold brew is created by steeping grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically up to 24 hours, to reduce breakdown of compounds responsible for bitterness, according to Gabrielle Tinsley, RD, wellness education specialist from Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Centers in San Jose, California. “With cold water,” Gabrielle notes, you aren’t scorching the beans with heat which results in smoother flavor profiles and overall less bitterness.

Cold brew coffee may also be easier on your stomach, making it ideal for those experiencing digestive issues, according to Joan Salge Blake, RD, clinical associate professor at Boston University and author of Nutrition & You. High acidity drinks may alter natural gut flora resulting in heartburn, gas and bloating as well as disrupting vitamin and mineral absorption; acidic coffee consumption could even contribute to fatigue, according to Joan.

Iced coffee can be just as healthy as brewed, although its ingredients typically do not include cold brew. Bottled varieties can often contain added sugars that can increase sugar intake; you can make your own at home by pouring regular-strength brewed coffee over ice in a glass and sweetening to your preference with milk or sweeteners as desired; Chobani offers an iced cold brew variety which doesn’t taste quite as sweet but still tastes fantastic when mixed with milk without needing added sugars!

But you can easily create healthier iced coffee at home by brewing up a batch of hot brew and freezing it in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, simply add these cubes to your cup as melting ice will dilute any concentrate without altering its taste. Or make your own low-sugar version by blending brew with non-fat milk (be sure to read labels carefully and avoid added sugars!). It will serve as an instant boost during the rest of your day! This simple drink could help kick start it!