What’s the healthiest coffee you can drink? Many people enjoy the occasional coffee, and it has health benefits – but what type of coffee should you choose?
Different coffees contain different concentrations of caffeine, antioxidants, acids and other compounds, and some are healthier than others. Let’s look at how different types of coffee can affect your health and wellbeing.
Arabica vs Robusta
When it comes to different types of coffee, there are two main categories: Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica beans are grown in high elevations, giving them a milder taste and higher concentration of antioxidants. Robusta beans, on the other hand, are grown at lower elevations and have a stronger, more bitter taste. They also contain twice as much caffeine as Arabica and have a higher concentration of antioxidants.
Robusta beans have some health benefits, such as providing a bonus source of antioxidants and increasing alertness. However, Arabica beans may be the better choice, as they are less acidic, provide more flavor, and have higher concentrations of antioxidants, which can help reduce cell damage.
Organic and Fairtrade Coffee
Organic coffee is grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It is also free of additives like preservatives or flavorings. Furthermore, organic coffee is shade-grown, meaning trees and other plants are allowed to grow alongside the coffee plants, which helps protect the environment and preserves biodiversity.
Fairtrade coffee is sourced from small-scale farmers in developing countries. It helps support farmers who are often unable to make a decent living from their crops, and provides them with an additional source of income.
Organic and Fairtrade coffees are usually healthier than conventionally grown varieties, as they are free from harmful chemicals and provide more than just the vegetable matter roasted and brewed to make your cup of coffee. Plus, drinking organic and Fairtrade certified coffee can help improve the livelihood of farmers around the world.
Cold Brew vs Hot Coffee?
Coffee can be brewed either hot or cold, and each method has its own health benefits.
Hot coffee has a higher concentration of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. It is also easier to digest than cold coffee, as the heat helps break down the proteins and acids that make cold coffee more difficult to process.
Cold brew coffee, on the other hand, is easier on the stomach, as it’s not as acidic as hot coffee. It also has a lower concentration of caffeine, which is beneficial for those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine.
Both hot and cold coffees can provide health benefits, but cold brew may be the healthier option for those who suffer from indigestion or are sensitive to caffeine.
Coffee Alternatives
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives to coffee, there are a few options to choose from.
Roasted chicory and dandelion root both make healthy alternatives that offer less caffeine and none of the acids or proteins found in coffee. Additionally, green tea is an excellent choice for those looking for an energy boost without the caffeine. It is full of antioxidants and other health benefits, and can be combined with other herbs to make a tasty, refreshing drink.
Coffee with Milk and Sugar?
Adding sugar and milk to your coffee can make it healthier, depending on the amount and type of sugar and milk you choose.
A small amount of sugar can help balance out the bitterness of coffee, and natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup or stevia can provide a healthier alternative to sugar. Plant-based milks such as almond or oat milk are also lower in calories and can help enhance the flavor of the coffee.
Adding sugar and milk to your coffee can add calories, so it’s best to keep it to a minimum or opt for healthier alternatives.
Making the Healthiest Coffee
The healthiest coffee you can make is one that is organic, Fairtrade certified, Arabica, and made with as little added sugar and milk as possible. It is also best to opt for cold brew over hot coffee, as this is less acidic and easier to digest.
Making the healthiest coffee doesn’t have to be time consuming or difficult – simply follow these guidelines for a delicious, nutritious coffee that’s good for you.
Variations of the Drink
Coffee doesn’t have to be enjoyed just as a wake-up or pick-me-up beverage. There are a wealth of recipes that allow you to experience the flavour of coffee in different ways. Coffee can be used in a wide variety of dishes such as desserts, breakfast, lunch and even main courses. There are different coffee preparation techniques you can use as well. Such techniques include espresso, french press, aeropress, and filter coffee.
Experimenting with different coffee recipes is one way to make your coffee experience a little more fun and adventurous. There are recipes for ice cream, cakes, pies and even savoury dishes that incorporate coffee. Delight your family and friends with these delicious interpretations of coffee, and enjoy the taste of coffee in more ways than one.
Better Quality Beans
When it comes to the healthiest coffee, it’s important to choose high quality beans. Look for coffees that have been freshly roasted and purchased within a few weeks. Be sure to check the packaging for the roast date and go for ones that are as fresh as possible. Additionally, if you buy pre-ground coffee, make sure the beans have been ground properly and the grind is fresh.
High quality, freshly roasted beans make a huge difference to the flavour and nutrition of the coffee. A cup of freshly roasted and ground coffee will provide more nutrients and be much tastier than an old, pre-ground bag of beans.
Purchasing Coffee
When you’re purchasing coffee, it’s important to look for options that align with your values and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a sustainable and ethical option, then go for Fairtrade certified and/or organic coffee beans. If you’re looking for convenience, instant coffee is a great option.
You can also choose to buy whole beans over pre-ground coffee for a better tasting cup of joe, as pre-ground coffee tends to lose its flavour and aroma quickly. Be sure to look for beans that are as fresh as possible, as this will ensure a flavourful cup of coffee.
Most importantly, look for coffee that is fresh, high quality, and grown in a sustainable and ethical manner. Doing so will ensure you are getting the healthiest cup of coffee you can find.
