Caffeine Component
Drinking cold coffee is a popular habit for some coffee-drinkers, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a healthy habit. Cold coffee is the result of letting the brewed coffee chill, either by room temperature, from the refrigerator, or from an ice-cold coffee order from a cafe. The caffeine component of coffee is well known, but coffee can also include flavors, oils, proteins, and fiber as well.
The caffeine levels of coffee vary greatly by brand, blend, and strength. Caffeine levels are higher in ten-fact coffee, making it less suitable for those looking for a lighter caffeine kick. Additionally, cold coffee has a much lower caffeine content than hot coffee. You may be drinking cold coffee out of preference, but it’s not a good way to get energized or stay alert.
While some people may find cold coffee to be more agreeable than its hot counterpart, it also has its own set of downsides. If you drink cold coffee on a regular basis, there may be some notable health risks associated with the beverage.
Health Risks
The first health risk arises from the added ingredients most companies use to make cold brew. Added sugars, syrups, and creamers add to the flavor and texture of the drink, but they also likely add to your caloric intake for the day. An occasional cold coffee drink does not have to concern you, but if you’re drinking cold coffee on a regular basis, and adding in flavorings, you’ll need to factor in the extra calories.
Another health risk associated with cold brew is the caffeine content. As mentioned above, cold brewed coffee has significantly lower caffeine content than its hot counterpart. For those looking to get the most of their caffeine fix, drinking cold coffee may not be the ideal choice.
The lack of caffeine can also cause changes in digestive health. Cold brew coffee is often brewed using cold water and fine grounds, which we now know don’t need the same amount of heat for the grounds to yield beneficial compounds and antioxidants. The low temperature means these compounds are left intact, alongside proteins and fiber, all of which may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms.
Benefits
Despite the health risks, cold brew also has some benefits. Since it’s brewed at a lower temperature, caffeine-sensitive individuals may find cold brew to be more agreeable than hot coffee. Additionally, cold brew has been known to stay richer in flavor and last longer after brewing. Hot brews can start to taste a bit off after a few days, but with cold brew you’ll be able to enjoy the same flavor for a little while longer.
Cold brew is also a great option if you’re looking to curb your acid intake. Since it’s brewed in cold water, the grounds don’t have to be exposed to the same amount of heat. This means, when consumed, cold brew will have lower levels of acridity than hot brew. As already mentioned, this also preserves a few of the beneficial compounds in coffee, like the antioxidants and proteins, for an added nutritional boost.
Coffee-lovers who take the time to make their own cold brew may benefit from reduced packaging waste. It’s much easier to buy coffee grounds once and transfer them to a re-usable container. Instead of constantly buying coffee beans packaged in plastic, you can make the same amount at home with the same great flavor.
Coffee Alternatives
For those who want to steer clear of coffee all together, there are alternatives. Especially popular in the summertime is tea. Just like coffee, tea is caffeinated and can give you the same energy boost without the worry of stomach upset. Since tea is often brewed at a lower temperature, there are fewer health risks associated with its consumption.
Another option is yerba mate, a drink made from the leaves of a plant of the same name. The plant is native to South America, and yerba mate is often touted for its energizing effects. Yerba mate is brewed and served similarly to tea, and contains about the same amount of caffeine. It also has a rich nutritional profile, containing several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
For those looking for a caffeine-free alternative, opting for an herbal tea is a great idea. Herbal teas contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that make for an excellent pick-me-up. Popular herbal teas include hibiscus, chamomile, ginger, and spearmint.
Alternatives to Cold Brew
If you find yourself buying cold brew from your local cafe every day there are plenty of other cool options. Iced cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos are all refreshing variations of the classic brands. Or you could opt for iced mocha or a Frappuccino. These drinks use the same beans and technique to make the classic hot versions, but are blended with ice and other ingredients.
Cold brew ice cubes are another option. Making cold brew ice cubes is as easy as pouring some cold brew into ice cube trays and freezing them. Put a few of the cubes into a glass of water for a refreshing and low-calorie cold brew. Cold brew cubes are an excellent way to curb your caffeine cravings and keep your drink cold, without adding extra calories.
Chilled coffee is similar to cold brew, but it’s brewed to a stronger consistency and mixed with ice or chilled in the refrigerator. Chilled coffee is more like drinking iced coffee with ice cubes; it’s a great way to explore a wide variety of coffee flavors and tailor your drink to your caffeine needs.
Takeaway
Cold coffee may seem appealing and refreshing, but it’s important to note there are some health risks associated with the drink. Cold coffee has lower levels of caffeine and can cause glass of water for a refreshing and low-calorie cold brew. Cold brew cubes are an excellent way to curb your caffeine cravings and keep your drink cold, without adding extra calories. Chilled coffee is similar to cold brew, but it’s brewed to a stronger consistency and mixed with ice or chilled in the refrigerator. Chilled coffee is more like drinking iced coffee with ice cubes; it’s a great way to explore a wide variety of coffee flavors and tailor your drink to your caffeine needs.
References
- Coffee and health: popular beverages, ed. O. B. Harminder et al. (Springer International Publishing, 2019).
- “Is Cold Brew Better Than Hot Coffee?” Consumer Reports, 7 Feb. 2016, www.consumerreports.org/coffee/is-cold-brew-better-than-hot-coffee-find-out/.
- Bartosz Zielinska, et al. “Yerba Mate – a Comprehensive Review on Chemistry, Health Benefits, and Toxicology.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), vol. 24, no. 10, May 2019, p. E1941., doi:10.3390/molecules24101941.
