Coffee is a popular beverage, and many individuals from various religions consume it. Among these religious groups, the LDS (Latter-Day Saints, also known as Mormons) also enjoy coffee. The question “Can LDS drink decaf coffee?” is something that has sparked debate and discussion among LDS followers. Before offering a direct answer to this question, it is important to look at decaffeinated coffee and the LDS religion.
Decaffeinated coffee is coffee that has had its caffeine content reduced by over 90%. It is made by soaking the beans in water and using a process called solvent extraction, removing most of the content. For some, the taste of decaffeinated coffee may be a little different than that of caffeinated coffee, but many LDS enjoy this beverage. The pros and cons of decaffeinated coffee also require consideration when discussing its consumption within the LDS church.
The pros of LDS drinking decaf coffee relate primarily to its taste and lack of caffeine. Decaf coffee has a subtle taste and can be seen by some as being delicate and flavorful. Since decaf contains virtually no caffeine, there are no downsides of consuming it such as the jitters and problems with sleeping. In addition, overconsumption of caffeine has potential health risks and consuming decaf may help avoid these side effects.
On the other hand, there are some cons to drinking decaf coffee amongst the LDS. A primary concern is the potential health consequences of drinking decaf. Many of the processes used to reduce or remove caffeine from coffee might leave behind minor toxic residues including polyaromatic hydrocarbons, ethylen oxide, and acrylamide. Therefore, it is important to consider if these substances could cause health problems for those consuming decaf.
The LDS Church does not officially forbid consumption of decaffeinated coffee. However, it does state that “hot drinks” are forbidden, so depending on the interpretation of what a “hot drink” is, this could be consider by some as forbidden. In any case, drinking decaf is generally seen as a positive choice since it contains no caffeine and its taste is usually considered enjoyable.
Is Decaf Coffee Less Harmful?
When weighing the pros and cons of decaffeinated coffee, it’s important to consider the potential health benefits. Studies have shown that coffee without caffeine can have health benefits, as it is said to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research has also found that decaffeinated coffee could be beneficial for those suffering from hypertension, and could reduce the instances of high blood pressure.
In addition, some scientists have determined that decaf coffee has higher levels of antioxidants. This means decaf consumers can take advantage of the health benefits of drinking coffee, such as reducing the risk of cancer and various heart problems. Finally, decaf coffee offers some of the same benefits as regular coffee, such as improved concentration, sharper memory, and enhanced physical performance.
However, despite the potential health benefits, LDS followers interested in decaf coffee should also consider that it still contains some chemicals, as previously mentioned. It is important to examine the potential risks and benefits of drinking decaffeinated coffee, as well as research the methods used to decaffeinate the beans.
What Does LDS Teach ?
LDS (Latter-Day Saints) believe that coffee is forbidden under the Law of health, which is found in the Doctrine and Covenants of the LDS Church. LDS also believe that consuming coffee and tea can lead to unhealthy habits and that partaking of coffee may lead to addictions. Therefore, as a result of this belief, LDS followers avoid the consumption of coffee and think of it as an unhealthy addition to one’s diet.
However, many LDS followers still enjoy coffee and find ways to enjoy the beverage without breaking the law of the LDS. For example, some LDS followers consume coffee substitutes that serve as an alternative to coffee and mimic the taste of coffee. There are various coffee substitutes on the market, such as dandelion root, chicory root, and carob powder.
Decaffeinated coffee can also be seen as a way to enjoy the beverage without breaking the Law of Health. As previously mentioned, decaffeinated coffee does not contain caffeine and therefore this option is seen as a healthier alternative to regular coffee.
Consequences Within the Church?
Although drinking decaf coffee is seen as a more favorable choice than drinking regular coffee, the LDS Church still detests the consumption of coffee by its members. The church dictates that individuals who consume coffee will be disciplined barring a person’s sinning of an excommunication. Therefore, LDS followers should be conscious of the consequences that could arise from consuming coffee, even if it is decaffeinated.
The discipline that an individual could receive from the Church would depend on the situation and the amount of coffee that was consumed. For example, if an LDS followed consumed a small amount of decaf over a short period of time, this may not invoke a strict response from the Church. However, if an individual were to repeatedly consume coffee or drink large amounts of decaf coffee, this may invoke a full-scale response.
Moral Aspect To Consider
Since the Church views consumption of coffee as a sin, it is important that LDS followers consider the moral aspects before consuming coffee. For example, consuming coffee might lead a person to sin against the Law of chastity, as the caffeinated beverage can make a person more alert, wired, and prone to engaging in immoral activities.
Furthermore, some LDS may worry about the effects their consumption of coffee might have on the church and its members. While the answer of whether or not LDS can drink decaf coffee may be different for each individual, it is important for LDS followers to consider the moral and spiritual implications of their decision.
Physical Implications of Parity Coffee Use
Whether or not an LDS follower consumes decaf coffee, partaking of this beverage may have physical implications. For example, as an individual continues to consume coffee, they may become more tolerant to caffeine and may continue to need more and more in order to feel the same effects. As a result, an individual might need larger doses to experience the same desired effects.
Furthermore, those who consume coffee may become more sensitive to the side effects of caffeine, such as jitters and an inability to sleep. An individual may also begin to notice an increase in appetite and cravings for foods, as well as an increase in thirst. Lastly, long-term use of caffeinated beverages could lead to mental health issues such as concentration problems and depression.
Government Regulation of Decaf
Coffee, including decaffeinated coffee, is also regulated by the government. For example, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that the caffeine levels be lower than 0.2% for the beverage to be considered decaffeinated. To ensure decaffeinated coffee meets this requirement, the decaffeinated beans must be tested by an independent laboratory, and the FDA has the power to investigate if consumers are not getting the right levels of caffeine in their coffee.
The FDA also has the power to impose fines and legal consequences if companies breach regulations or fail to provide adequate information on labels. Therefore, companies should ensure they meet all relevant requirements and should ensure their customers have the correct information so that they are aware of what is in their coffee.
Benefits of Drinking Decaf
Overall, although the LDS church does not condone coffee consumption, it can be seen as permissible to drink decaffeinated coffee. Decaf coffee has potential health benefits and those that choose to partake in this beverage should do so in moderation. It can be argued that choosing to drink decaf coffee is a healthier and more moral decision opposed to regular coffee.
In addition, consuming decaf coffee can be seen as a way for an individual to enjoy the beverage with no downsides. People can still enjoy the taste of coffee without its expected side-effects, and the government regulations on decaffeinated coffee ensure the beverage is safe for consumption. As long as LDS followers are aware of the consequences that could arise from drinking coffee, their conscience decision to drink decaf can be seen as a favorable one.
