Coffee is a staple for millions worldwide, but could it be affecting cholesterol levels? In this episode, NutritionFacts.org explores how different coffee brewing methods impact cholesterol, revealing surprising findings about paper filters, cafestol levels, and even roasting techniques.

Key Points:

This episode reveals that coffee brewing methods significantly impact cholesterol levels, with unfiltered options like French press and espresso raising LDL more than paper-filtered coffee. While filtering removes most of the cholesterol-raising compound cafestol, some studies suggest even filtered coffee may have a modest effect on cholesterol levels.

• Brewing Method Matters: Coffee contains cafestol, a compound that can raise cholesterol levels. While paper-filtered coffee removes most cafestol, unfiltered methods like French press, Turkish, and espresso leave more of it in the final cup.
• Filtered Coffee May Still Raise Cholesterol: Though paper filters reduce cafestol by over 90%, some studies suggest that even filtered coffee can modestly raise LDL cholesterol, especially if brewed with high-cafestol beans.
• Cafestol Stays in Coffee Grounds: Research shows that most cafestol is trapped in coffee grounds, not the paper filter itself. The filter mainly blocks fine particles carrying cafestol, explaining why some unfiltered coffee methods still lead to cholesterol spikes.
• Roasting Affects Cafestol Levels: Dark roasting reduces cafestol, but the difference between light and medium roasts is minimal. If concerned about cholesterol, opting for a darker roast may be beneficial.
• Grind Size & Brewing Factors: Smaller coffee grounds may increase cafestol extraction, leading to higher cholesterol-raising potential. Choosing coarser grinds and lighter brews could help minimize this effect.
• What Coffee Drinkers Should Do: If you have high cholesterol, consider switching to paper-filtered coffee, lower-cafestol beans, or dark roasts. If levels remain high despite a healthy diet, it may be worth cutting out coffee entirely and monitoring changes.