Cold Brew vs Iced Coffee: Which is Healthier?" />
The Difference Between Cold Brew and Iced Coffee
Cold brew coffee and iced coffee both provide refreshment on a hot summer day, but which one is better for your health? The main difference between the two drinks is the brewing process. For cold brew coffee, coarse ground coffee beans are steeped in cool or room temperature water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. This draws out the flavor from the beans in a gentle process that results in a less acidic coffee with a smoother taste. Iced coffee, on the other hand, is made by brewing hot coffee and then pouring it over ice to cool it down. The hot brewing process extracts more acids and oils from the coffee beans, giving iced coffee a stronger flavor but also making it more acidic.
Is Cold Brew or Iced Coffee More Acidic?
The extended steeping time used in cold brewing minimizes acid extraction from the coffee beans. Studies have found that cold brew coffee contains 60-75% less acid than hot coffee. The acids implicated with health issues like stomach irritation are hydrochloric acid, citric acid, and quinic acid. Cold brew’s gentle extraction process allows it to retain the favorable components of coffee like antioxidants while significantly reducing the acidic compounds. On the other hand, the high heat used in conventional drip brewing leads to quicker extraction of acids along with the flavors. When this hot coffee is poured over ice to make iced coffee, it retains much of its acidity.
Are There Any Health Benefits to Choosing Cold Brew?
With far less acidity, cold brew coffee is easier on the stomach than iced coffee. This makes it a better option for those prone to acid reflux or gastrointestinal issues triggered by acidic foods and drinks. Some research also links hot coffee’s acids to increased risk of heartburn and digestive problems. Cold brew’s milder characteristics avoid exacerbating acid-related conditions. Additionally, cold brew is thought to contain higher concentrations of chlorogenic acids, a family of antioxidants that have been linked to reduced blood sugar spikes and decreased fat storage. For health-conscious individuals keeping an eye on metabolism and weight management, opting for cold brew over iced may offer some benefits.
In Summary
While both cold brew coffee and iced coffee provide a refreshing cool beverage in the warmer months, cold brew is generally healthier due to its significantly lower acidity. The gentler cold brewing process extracts less of the acids implicated in digestive issues, making it kinder on the stomach. This lower acid profile helps cold brew avoid exacerbating conditions like acid reflux. Additionally, some research suggests cold brew contains higher amounts of antioxidants that could contribute to metabolic advantages. For overall digestive and metabolic health, cold brew coffee may be the better choice compared to its more acidic iced counterpart. But nothing prevents enjoying both in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle. A trip to Geocuisine Bay Ridge could allow comparing cold brew versus iced coffee firsthand.
