Decaf Coffee: Is It Healthy?

If caffeine gives you the jitters you may opt for coffee that’s “de-buzzed.” But is this a healthy choice?

Related To:

coffee

145128938

Coffee cup

Photo by: Jean-Francois Schmit

Jean-Francois Schmit

If caffeine gives you the jitters you may opt for coffee that’s "de-buzzed." But is this a healthy choice?
Yes?

While caffeine does have some health benefits, too much can be harmful, especially if you have a heart condition. For this reason, many folks opt for the decaf version of their morning (or evening) Joe. Decaf can also come in handy if you’re trying to break the caffeine habit. Pregnant women sometimes switch to decaf to keep their morning ritual somewhat intact.

Coffee is also famous for it’s antioxidant content. Some of the specific antioxidants vary depending on the type of coffee bean, but both decaf and regular provide some of these cell protecting nutrients.

No?

It may not affect the nutritional quality but most would agree there’s a flavor difference between caffeinated and decaf coffee. There’s also been some controversy over the safety of the decaffeination process.

Legend has it that back in the early 1960s and 70’s potentially carcinogenic solvents were used to extract caffeine but nowadays more natural plant-based solvents, plain water, or CO2 (carbon dioxide) are most commonly used.

Despite efforts to strip all the caffeine, a small amount does remain. Eight fluid ounces of decaf coffee from Starbucks averages 3 to 12 milligrams of caffeine; a cup of regular brew has 160 milligrams.

The Verdict: Decaf will deprive you of caffeine but that’s about it. If coffee without the buzz is the right choice for you, there’s no need to worry.

Tell Us: Do you drink decaf or regular?

Next Up

How to Make Pour Over Coffee

Here, a concise step-by-step guide.

How to Make Coffee Without a Coffeemaker

It's easy to brew coffee without a machine. All you need is a few basic kitchen supplies.

What's the Ideal Coffee-to-Water Ratio?

We've got the so-called Golden Ratio for your morning cuppa.

Everything You Need to Make Barista-Style Coffees at Home

Save time (and money!) with these delightful DIYS.

The Tool Vietnamese Coffee Drinkers Have Been Brewing with for Generations

The sustainable, low-tech phin is ideal for just about anyone, no matter how you like your coffee.

How to Make a Latte

A step-by-step guide to making the coffee shop favorite at home.

This Coffee Is How I Get My Pumpkin Spice Fix Year-Round

Because, to me, "pumpkin spice season" lasts well past November.

Iced Coffee Hacks

Transform your favorite refreshing treat with these sweet hacks.