Coffee

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.