Coffee lovers around the world who reach for their favorite morning brew probably aren’t thinking about its health benefits or risks. Why then in 2018 did one U.S. state pass legislation that coffee must bear a cancer warning label? Read on to explore the complexities of coffee.
Rich in Caffeine
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Magnesium
- Plant chemicals: poylphenols including chlorogenic acid and quinic acid, and diterpenes including cafestol and kahweol
- One 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains about 95 mg of caffeine
Coffee and Health
Low to moderate doses of caffeine (50-300 mg) may cause increased alertness, energy, and ability to concentrate, while higher doses may have negative effects such as anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.
- Does the benefit stem from the caffeine or plant compounds in the coffee bean? Is there a certain amount of coffee needed a day to produce a health benefit?
Darker roasts contain higher levels of caffeine than lighter roasts
Lighter roasts actually have a slightly higher concentration
Purchase
There are two main types of coffee species: Arabica and Robusta.
- Types of bean
- Arabica: originates from Ethiopia and produces a mild, flavorful tasting coffee. It is expensive to grow and requires shade, humidity, and steady temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit, while roasting at a high heat produces a chemical change that releases the rich aroma and flavor that we associate with coffee.
- The lighter the roast, the lighter the color and roasted flavor, and the higher the acidity. Dark roasts produce a black bean with little acidity and a bitter roasted flavor.
Terms of Use
The contents of this website are for educational purposes and are not intended to offer personal medical advice.
Store
Store beans or ground coffee in an airtight opaque container at room temperature away from sunlight.
Make
Follow directions on the coffee package and your coffee machine, but generally the ratio is 1-2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water.
Member discussion: