Coffee drinkers know the joys of their morning brew can bring numerous advantages, ranging from heart health to improved cognitive function. Research indicating a link between increased coffee intake and reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and neurological diseases and decaf coffee may actually provide equal or even better health benefits; due to many protective chemicals present that do not rely on caffeine; thus decreasing risks such as diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cirrhosis, and even cancer.

Regular and decaf beverages differ by one key factor – caffeine. While natural caffeine does have some health benefits, its side effects include jitters, heartburn and anxiety for some people; decaf is often recommended for those with sensitive stomachs or high anxiety levels.

Additionally, coffee’s acidic properties can be harsh on your digestive system and stomach. To protect both systems effectively and improve overall health, drinking your coffee black will be much better for you.

Decaf coffee is created by soaking whole beans in a solvent that removes caffeine before roasting and brewing them. Methylene chloride is often the go-to solvent; however, water and plain carbon dioxide have proven more efficient. As this process is still relatively new, many are worried that trace amounts of methylene chloride might remain after processing; fortunately the FDA regulates that to be below 10 parts per million.

Decaf coffee contains many organic compounds and antioxidants thought to provide many of its health benefits; however, due to limited studies that distinguish between caffeinated and decaf coffee or exclude both altogether, making an accurate assessment is difficult.

Studies have linked coffee consumption with reduced risk for Type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders and Alzheimer’s. A 2022 European Journal of Preventive Cardiology study demonstrated that those who consumed moderate amounts of coffee — up to 400 milligrams daily or about four to five cups — had lower cardiovascular disease risks compared with non-coffee drinkers. While caffeine may help stabilize heart rhythm, this effect was likely attributable to other beneficial components within coffee rather than its caffeine alone.

The Verdict: Both regular and decaf coffee offer numerous health advantages; which one is healthier? That depends on personal taste and any side effects experienced from caffeine; nevertheless both should be available to anyone looking to reap its many rewards.