She Strengthens

Cutting Back on Coffee? Here’s a Surprising Alternative

Are you considering reducing your coffee intake? Maybe you’re seeking a better night’s sleep, or you want to avoid the jitters and crashes that come with caffeine. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone. With Americans drinking an average of 64% of coffee every day and spending over $1,100 on coffee annually, it’s no wonder many of us are looking for a change.

The Good Stuff About Coffee

Before we dive into the alternative, let’s acknowledge the benefits of coffee. It’s packed with antioxidants, which may help prevent cancer and type 2 diabetes. Plus, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to improved cognitive function and a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Introducing Decaf Coffee

Decaf coffee, or decaffeinated coffee, is a game-changer for those who want to reduce their caffeine intake. While it’s not completely caffeine-free, the decaffeination process removes around 97% of the caffeine, leaving behind a mere 3 milligrams per cup compared to the 85 milligrams in regular coffee.

How Decaf Coffee is Made

The decaffeination process involves soaking unroasted coffee beans in water to dissolve the caffeine. Then, one of three methods is used to remove the caffeine from the water. The most common method involves using chemicals like methylene chloride or ethyl acetate, which may raise some eyebrows. However, the FDA has deemed these methods safe, and the amount of chemicals remaining in the coffee is minimal.

For those who prefer a chemical-free option, the Swiss Water Process uses a charcoal filter to remove caffeine, while another method employs liquid carbon dioxide. If you’re concerned about chemicals, look for certified organic decaf coffee or ask your local coffee shop about their processing methods.

Is Decaf Coffee Good for You?

Decaf coffee still contains antioxidants, although slightly fewer than regular coffee. It’s also been shown to reduce the risk of rectal cancer, improve cognitive function, and protect neurons in the brain. Plus, decaf coffee may lower mortality rates due to its positive effects on inflammation and depression.

Is Decaf Better for You?

While regular coffee has a longer list of health benefits, decaf coffee is a better choice for those who don’t tolerate caffeine well. It’s milder, reducing symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn, and it’s a safer choice for those who need to minimize caffeine consumption.

The Takeaway

Ultimately, whether you choose regular or decaf coffee depends on your body’s response to caffeine. If you don’t experience side effects, enjoy your coffee in moderation (limiting yourself to 400 milligrams per day). If you prefer a milder taste and experience, opt for decaf. With its numerous benefits and minimal caffeine content, decaf coffee is a surprising alternative worth considering.