General practitioner Elena Ustinova from Russia's SM-Clinic has identified filter coffee as the least harmful preparation method for regular drinkers, RT reported.
Ustinova explained that brewing coffee through a paper filter traps organic oils such as cafestol and kahweol, preventing them from entering the body in large quantities.
According to Ustinova, preparation techniques directly influence the concentration of caffeine, oils, and other biologically active substances present in every cup. This makes the choice of brewing method particularly important for people who consume coffee frequently or in high volumes.
Unfiltered preparation methods, including French press brewing and traditional ibrik boiling, produce high quality coffee but allow significantly higher levels of natural oils to remain in the liquid. Small portions of espresso carry no greater health risk than a large cup prepared in a French press, while instant coffee remains acceptable if consumers avoid adding excessive amounts of sugar and cream.
Understanding coffee oils
Cafestol and kahweol are natural diterpenes found in coffee beans that are extracted during brewing. While filtered drip coffee relies on paper to trap these lipid compounds, unfiltered methods allow them to pass directly into the beverage, where regular intake can elevate serum cholesterol levels. SM-Clinic is a private healthcare network based in Russia, where RT operates as a news organisation covering medical and lifestyle guidance.
Regarding daily consumption routines, Ustinova noted that individuals do not need to drink coffee immediately upon waking. The primary guideline is to consume the final cup at least six to eight hours before bedtime, or even earlier for individuals who display high sensitivity to caffeine.
Healthy drinking habits
Ustinova warned against drinking coffee on an empty stomach and cautioned that caffeine should never be used as a substitute for adequate sleep. While the beverage temporarily increases alertness and energy, it cannot offset the physical toll of chronic sleep deprivation.
Ultimately, Ustinova emphasized that coffee can form part of a healthy diet provided it is consumed in moderation and adjusted to individual physiological tolerance.
