Cafestol and Coffee Brewing Methods:

Cafestol, found in the oil of coffee beans, emerges as the cholesterol-raising factor. Surprisingly, it tends to get trapped in paper filters, explaining why filtered coffee doesn’t have the same impact on cholesterol. On the other hand, brewing methods such as Espresso, French press, Turkish, and boiled coffees allow cafestol to seep into the beverage, with each method being progressively worse in this regard.

Studies have shown that individuals consuming French press coffee, despite being filtered, experienced a significant increase in cholesterol within just two weeks. However, when these individuals switched to paper-filtered coffee, their cholesterol levels returned to baseline, highlighting the influence of preparation methods.

Cafestol Levels and Cholesterol Increase:

In a study, subjects who started consuming a high-cafestol coffee for a month, even when paper-filtered, saw a significant increase in LDL cholesterol. This prompts consideration for those with persistently high cholesterol despite maintaining a healthy diet. The suggestion arises to either cut out coffee temporarily and get retested or switch to a lower cafestol coffee variant.

Impact of Brewing Variables:

Switching from a coffee maker or French press with a metal mesh filter to one with a paper filter, or adding a paper filter, can reportedly reduce more than 90 percent of cafestol. However, recent research suggests that the paper filter may not entirely block cafestol. Instead, it is the fine particles carrying cafestol that contribute to its retention. This adds a layer of complexity to understanding the interplay between coffee brewing methods and cholesterol levels.

Roasting degree, grind size, and other variables also play a role in cafestol levels. While roasting seems to destroy some cafestol, darker roasts may have less, and both medium light and medium roasts have been associated with raised LDL cholesterol.

Espresso: A Concentrated Culprit:

Espresso, a concentrated coffee variant, stands out with a shocking revelation – it contains 20 times more cafestol than paper-filtered drip coffee. This makes it a significant contributor to raising cholesterol levels.

The Alternative: Green Tea:

In light of these findings, the article concludes with a surprising suggestion: reconsider your cup of coffee in the morning. While not outright discouraging coffee consumption, the emphasis is on the lost opportunity to choose something even more healthful. Green tea is offered as an alternative, free from the adverse cholesterol consequences associated with coffee.