Cold brew coffee has recently gained immense popularity for good reason. Produced by steeping grounds in room-temperature or cold water for hours or even overnight, cold brew is a less acidic drink with richer flavors and aromas than its regular joe counterpart. Plus, its reduced acidity may help people avoid overindulging in high-calorie sweeteners and creamers which could otherwise lead to overindulgence of higher-calorie sweeteners and creamers; yet does that make it healthier?

Cold brew poses the question, “Will cold brew contain more or less caffeine than regular coffee?” However, its answer depends on many variables, such as: bean-water ratio used; type of coffee beans (roasted vs unroasted); extraction method and more. In general though, one 16-ounce (473-mL) serving of cold brew contains around 200 mg versus 205-260 mg for regular coffee in one 16-ounce (473 mL).

Cold brew enthusiasts frequently make the claim that its lack of heat makes it richer in antioxidants. Although some research supports this notion, this mainly relies on speculation and anecdotal evidence; there’s actually no difference in the amount of antioxidants absorbed into your system between hot or cold brew.

An important consideration when brewing coffee is that how it’s prepared can have a substantial effect on its flavor and health benefits, according to a nutritionist quoted in a New York Times article. He explained how hot water tends to extract more acidic compounds from coffee grounds than cold or spring water does; this results in bitter flavors some find distasteful when making their daily cup of java. In order to minimize this effect he advised using either filtered or spring water when making your beverage.

As for making cold brew yourself, you have many ways you can customize its flavors and aromas. Keep in mind, however, that cold brew is usually more concentrated than traditional coffee and may need to be watered down with milk or other liquid when making drinks for serving.

Cold brew coffee offers many of the same health benefits as regular coffee; some may find cold brew easier on their stomachs. Best advice would be to try both and decide which you find more enjoyable, knowing both can help keep you alert and productive at work or school, and reduce risk factors like heart disease and diabetes. Start off each morning right by starting your day right with either cold or hot brew coffee, and experience extra energy and mental sharpness as a result of its stimulating properties (or try having both!) Jennifer Nied is the Fitness Editor at Women’s Health, having over 10 years of experience working in health and wellness journalism. Her interests include testing out new workouts and gear, hiking, snowboarding, running and spending time with family. You can follow her on Twitter.