Decaf coffee is a beverage in which most of the caffeine has been stripped out, touted as an alternative healthful drink to regular caffeinated coffee due to its reduced caffeine levels and may therefore be better suited to those with sensitive stomachs or wanting to reduce their stimulant consumption. Though decaf does contain significantly fewer milligrams of caffeine than its caffeinated counterpart, many individuals fear that decaf may lack its healthful properties; however experts claim decaf still contains important antioxidants and other vital nutrients despite not providing as much energy-boosting caffeine.

United States statistics estimate that approximately 26 million individuals regularly consume decaf coffee. While many individuals choose decaf for personal preference or due to caffeine sensitivity, other reasons why people might switch include high blood pressure, wanting to avoid jitters and anxiety, sleep disruptions, medication which requires minimal caffeine (e.g. benzodiazepines) and medication needs that necessitate lower doses.

Decaf coffee offers many of the same health advantages associated with its caffeinated counterpart, including lower risks of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Research indicates that both types can help lower stroke risks, boost mood and memory capabilities and decrease depression risk.

But some chemicals used in decaf coffee production, like methylene chloride, have been identified as carcinogenic. Used commonly as a solvent and known to be carcinogenic, methylene chloride has been linked with dizziness, respiratory issues and skin irritation – although most individuals likely won’t consume enough decaf to have any noticeable impact. If concerned, other methods of decaffeination such as Swiss Water Process and liquid carbon dioxide should be sought out as potential alternatives.

Methylene chloride isn’t the only chemical used in producing decaf coffee; some producers also employ butane and hexane, both considered toxic substances. As such, nutritionists advise choosing organic decaf or brands which clearly state their method of decaffeination on the label.

As for whether decaf coffee offers equal health benefits as caffeinated, nutritionists generally agree that as long as your health remains intact and there are no adverse side effects from caffeine intake, then it’s generally safe for most adults to continue their morning cup regardless of its form – just keep 400 milligrams (about four to five cups of standard coffee) daily as an upper limit; anything beyond this amount can lead to unwanted side effects like irritability, headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure or heart palpitations.