Know the differences and discover the benefits

Coffee or decaf? Which one to opt for? O Dr. Gonçalo Botelhospecialist in general and family medicine and preventive and functional medicine at Clínica Pilares da Saúde, differentiates them and tells us about the benefits of each one.”In theory, the main differences between coffee and decaffeinated coffee are related to the removing the caffeine from the latter and with the possibility of the presence of chemical solvents, such as methylene chloride in its composition”, he began by saying.

How does caffeine act on our body?

“It is important to mention that, of all the substances present in coffee, caffeine is the one that we should tend to avoid. Caffeine acts as adenosine receptor antagonist, being associated with the occurrence of palpitations, anxiety, tremor, insomnia, headaches, nausea and vomiting, muscle stiffness, increased blood pressure and worsening of stomach problems such as heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux and gastritis. It is related to the decreased magnesium levels in the body, an essential mineral that is already scarce in our diet and one of the most consumed by the human body, both due to the hundreds of functions it has, and due to the stress we experience daily. Caffeine can induce dependence, if consumed in excess, has the potential to cause withdrawal symptoms when its consumption is stopped (physical and mental fatigue, depressive mood, irritability, difficulty working). If caffeine interferes with sleep quality, it should be avoided or last consumed about 10 hours before bed. It is also important to clarify to the reader that decaffeinated coffee can still maintain a small percentage of caffeine: up to a maximum of 3% of the amount of caffeine present in normal coffee. Therefore, it may not be completely free from this substance. However, the amount is much smaller and the harm associated with caffeine will also be considerably smaller.”

Does caffeine affect everyone the same way?

“The answer is no, it depends on the individual’s genetics. There are people who are fast metabolizers of caffeine, others who are slow metabolizers. This can be determined, nowadays, by carrying out a genetic test. Rapid caffeine metabolizers have a greater tolerance to this substance and can consume larger quantities without experiencing as many adverse effects. Slow metabolizers should not consume more than one cup of coffee per day. There are, on the other hand, other substances present in coffee that are beneficial to health. Therefore, the benefits of decaffeinated coffee are precisely related to all these substances that coffee contains.”

Analysis of the harms of decaffeinated coffee

“Decaffeinated coffee is rich in antioxidants, but tends to have a smaller amount than normal coffee, and there are even studies that prove this. The loss of these antioxidants occurs with the decaffeination process. It also contains some important nutrients such as B complex vitamins. There are studies that show that both coffee and decaffeinated coffee are associated with a reduced incidence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Parkinson’s Disease and Neurodegenerative Disease. Studies also show that they help prevent liver disease, exerting a protective effect on the liver. Decaffeinated coffee also appears to be associated with a slight reduction in the likelihood of stroke and heart disease. In order to be able toTo evaluate the health harms of decaffeinated coffee, we must analyze its manufacturing method.

There are 3 methods that can be used:

through the use of carbon dioxide;
water and filters suitable for the process;
chemical solvents such as methylene chloride or ethyl acetate.

The first 2 methods presented do not seem to have any consequences for people’s health. The doubts lie in the use of chemical solvents, which are the main method used, as it is also the cheapest. Methylene chloride is used as a paint, varnish or grease remover. It is a substance proven to be harmful to people’s health, particularly if inhaled. Repeated exposure of humans to this substance has revealed serious adverse effects, particularly on the liver and blood. It is currently classified as a product suspected of being linked to the appearance of cancer in humans.”

Advice to the reader

“That being said, if the reader consumes decaffeinated coffee daily and/or in larger quantities, the safest way to do so is to choose a brand that does not use chemical solvents and opt for one of the safe methods, already mentioned above. Finally, to maximize the benefits and minimize the harm, the quality of the coffee is important: preference should be given to quality, organic coffee. It should not be forgotten that decaffeinated coffee originates from coffee, so the quality of the coffee influences the quality of the decaf.

In first placeit must be analyzed whether the person is a fast or slow metabolizer of caffeine. As already mentioned, fast metabolizers will be able to enjoy the benefits of coffee without experiencing the adverse effects of caffeine. This does not mean that you should abuse coffee consumption. There is no need to consume more than two coffees a day. As for the slow metabilizer, you should limit your consumption to one cup per day. Don’t forget that caffeine is the price you pay for the benefits of coffee.

On the other hand, It is necessary to assess whether the decaffeinated coffee was obtained by using a chemical solvent, for the reasons already presented above. If so, I do not recommend its consumption, because, despite what I have already said about caffeine, moderate consumption (one cup per day) would be preferable to the risk of consuming any chemical solvent. On the other hand, decaffeinated coffee obtained by using carbon dioxide or water and filters suitable for the process seems safe and could therefore be an excellent alternative, particularly for people who metabolize coffee slowly.

Finally, The quality of the coffee should weigh in on the decision: organic coffee has better quality and brings more benefits. In conclusion, the choice should vary based on the individual characteristics of each person, the quality of the coffee and the way in which decaffeinated coffee is obtained. Whatever the choice, moderate consumption of one to two cups per day should not be exceeded.”