Coffee is an enjoyable beverage that has many health benefits, including increasing energy and alertness, improving mental performance and decreasing the risk of diabetes. Coffee also offers numerous other health advantages like antioxidants, fibre for gut health and even some anti-cancer properties. Both hot and iced varieties provide similar nutritional values; their respective healthiness depends on which brew method you select as well as any additional ingredients like sugar milk and cream added.

Temperature Difference

One of the key distinctions between hot and cold brew coffee is temperature. Hot coffee is made by heating coffee beans at higher temperatures, releasing some of the acids found within them and producing a drink with an acidic edge; cold brew is made at lower temperatures so has less of an acidic edge and has a more balanced flavour that’s easier on stomachs.

Temperature of water used when extracting coffee compounds also influences their extraction. Hot water allows more quickly extraction of non-acidic components of coffee, producing a more balanced flavor; cold water slows this process down further, leading to acidic components being extracted more slowly; leading to less harsh and bitter flavour, which some may find more enjoyable.

Regarding caffeine content, both drinks typically contain similar levels. However, it’s important to remember that hot brewed coffee may be more likely to trigger acid reflux and digestive issues than cold brew. Cold brew typically has lower caffeine levels so may be an ideal choice for people experiencing digestive difficulties.

As with any food or beverage, coffee can be made more healthful by limiting sugar and milk additions to your cup. Selecting skim or soy alternatives instead can reduce fat and calories by choosing skim milk; and it would also be wise to forgo flavoured syrups which contain excessive amounts of artificial ingredients – one investigation conducted by Which? in 2023 revealed that some popular frappes from Caffe Nero, Costa, and Starbucks contained over one day’s worth of sugar (11 teaspoons!). Instead try choosing plain or chocolate flavors instead for a sweeter treat with less of an impactful calorie impact!