Coffee has long been linked to various health benefits, including decreased heart disease and improved cognitive performance. Studies have even demonstrated that decaf coffee may offer similar health advantages. Many who avoid caffeine for health reasons opt for decaf coffee as a healthy option – though recently some health advocates have requested the FDA ban an additive used in decaffeination processes claiming it’s dangerous – yet these concerns appear unjustified.

Decaffeination requires soaking beans in solvents known to be carcinogenic, such as methylene chloride. The FDA allows its use as long as its concentration in coffee remains below 10 parts per million. Methylene chloride can be found in paint strippers, metal cleaners and varnish removers as well as some wood preservatives; its inhalation or skin contact has been linked with cancer, liver and kidney issues, numb feet/hands/nausea symptoms.

Decaf coffee contains very low levels of methylene chloride, thus minimising any risks. Furthermore, other methods exist for decaffeinating coffee as well. Some methods include rubbing coffee beans with ice and water for several minutes prior to steaming or using carbon dioxide – among many others. In addition, instant and ground decaf coffees with no solvents used may still work just as effectively compared with European Method decaf.

Decaf coffee not only tastes amazing, it contains numerous essential vitamins and minerals. One cup can provide up to 2.4% of your recommended daily intake (RDI) of magnesium and 2.5% of vitamin B3 while also being rich in antioxidants that may help prevent cardiovascular disease as well as Alzheimer’s.

Research may still be underway, but one thing seems clear: whether you drink decaf or regular coffee, moderation is key. Too much caffeine can lead to jitteriness, difficulty sleeping and heartburn among other unpleasant symptoms; therefore the FDA advises limiting caffeine consumption to no more than 400 milligrams daily or approximately four cups of regular coffee.

No matter the food or beverages you consume, it’s essential that your diet contains sufficient amounts of fiber and phytochemicals. There are plenty of ways to incorporate healthy foods such as tea or hot chocolate into your daily regimen; sign up now for ZOE’s personalized nutrition program for advanced testing that can determine which are the most suitable products and supplements for you based on an in-depth evaluation process and join an encouraging community! Also sign up now for our newsletter so you don’t miss any personalized nutrition news updates!