This one change to your coffee could add years to your life, claims expert barista
An expert barista has set out to uncover the hidden health benefits of your daily coffee, showing it could even add years to your life with a small change.
James Hoffman, a former barista champion and devoted coffee enthusiast, took a deep dive into the world of decaf to explore why it’s often overlooked by people, SurreyLive reports.
Through his research, Hoffman discovered that decaf coffee retains all the health perks of its caffeinated counterpart, minus the potential drawbacks associated with caffeine.
READ MORE: Dentist reveals why your teeth are yellow even if you always brush them
READ MORE: The peaceful Glasgow riverside hike near 'Scotland's best fish and chips' restaurant
In a video shared with his 2.2million YouTube subscribers, Hoffman analyzed a batch of premium decaf coffee grounds.
He found they were rich in healthy acids, offering benefits for your gut. He elaborated: “Chlorogenic acids are kind of plant defense chemicals and are actually present in relatively high quantities compared to caffeinated coffee.”
"That makes decaf to me particularly interesting, it tastes great when it's done right, it's got loads of polyphenols so it's good for you, but there's no caffeine which is also potentially useful if I suffer sensitivity to it; if it delays the onset of my sleep or if it lowers the quality of my sleep, or if it exacerbates things like anxiety.
"There are reasons not to drink caffeine but decaf gives you loads of the potential theoretical health benefits of coffee without the downsides."
Chlorogenic acids, known for improving gut health, are found in a variety of nutritious foods like blueberries, apples, sunflower seeds, and tomatoes.
However, coffee stands out as one of the richest sources, making it an easy and effective way to boost your diet. Hoffman also worked with Professor Tim Spector, who has also explored the impressive health benefits of coffee.
During a podcast appearance, the two experts discussed how coffee is packed with essential nutrients and surprisingly high in fiber.
They also looked at studies showing that coffee drinkers are 25 per cent less likely to suffer heart attacks and face a lower risk of heart disease, all of which contribute to a longer life expectancy.
Speaking on the chemicals that help your gut Professor Spector added: “There’s a range of polyphenols that are enhanced by the microbes as they ferment it.
“And those have direct effects on our body, and some of them can reduce blood sugar and reduce stress and actually reduce blood pressure. The studies have now clearly shown that you get nearly as much benefit on the heart with decaffeinated coffee.”
NHS Northumbria highlights several health benefits of making the switch to decaf. Among them, it can improve sleep quality, reduce irregular heartbeats, and help prevent dehydration and headaches.
It can also help against indigestion and lower the risk of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.
