Coffee is a staple beverage in Saudi Arabia, forming part of the daily routine, whether during family gatherings or moments of relaxation. With increasing concern for heart health and blood lipid levels, many wonder: Does coffee affect cholesterol and triglycerides? Coffee contains components such as caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and diterpenes, which may affect blood lipids depending on the type of coffee , the brewing method, and the amount consumed. In this article, prepared for the Coffee Wellness blog, we will explore the effect of coffee on blood lipids, along with tips for enjoying specialty coffee from Saudi roasters like Hound , Ash , and Doha in a healthy way, and answer frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive guide for coffee lovers in Saudi Arabia.
Coffee and blood lipids: How do they affect each other?
Coffee contains active ingredients such as caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and diterpenes (like cafestol and kahweol), which may affect cholesterol (LDL and HDL) and triglyceride levels. Here are the details:
1. The effect of diterpenes on cholesterol
- What are diterpenes? Cafestol and kahweol are fatty compounds found in coffee beans, and are more concentrated in unfiltered coffee such as Turkish coffee , boiled coffee, or French press.
- Effect : Diterpenes may raise levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) when unfiltered coffee is consumed in large quantities (4-6 cups daily), because they affect the liver and stimulate cholesterol production.
- Filtered coffee : Coffee prepared using paper filters, such as Hario V60 drip coffee, contains very low levels of diterpenes, which reduces its effect on cholesterol.
2. The effect of caffeine on triglycerides
- Caffeine : Caffeine stimulates the nervous system and affects fat metabolism. Moderate caffeine consumption (200-400 mg daily, i.e., 1-3 cups) does not usually have a significant effect on triglycerides or cholesterol in healthy individuals.
- Excessive caffeine : Consuming more than 400 mg per day may lead to a slight increase in triglycerides in some people, especially if accompanied by high-calorie additions such as sugar or cream .
3. Benefits of chlorogenic acids
- Antioxidants : Chlorogenic acids, found in high concentrations in lightly roasted coffees like Dhuha Yirgacheffe , possess antioxidant properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation and improve fat metabolism, thus supporting heart health.
- Indirect effect : Chlorogenic acids may reduce carbohydrate absorption, which helps in weight control, an important factor in maintaining healthy blood lipid levels.
4. Effect of supplements on blood lipids
- Sugar and cream : Adding sugar, cream, or high-calorie sauces (such as caramel or chocolate) to coffee may increase triglycerides and bad cholesterol in the long term, especially if it leads to weight gain.
- Healthier alternatives : Using unsweetened almond or oat milk, or sugar-free sauces such as sugar-free Turani from Luxury Coffee , helps to reduce this effect.
You can read: Does drinking coffee affect the kidneys?
The best types of coffee for healthy blood lipids
To enjoy coffee while minimizing its effect on blood lipids, choose the following types with suitable preparation methods:
1. Drip coffee
- Description : Prepared using paper filters , which removes most of the diterpenes.
- Recommended pills :
- Doha Yirgacheffe : Ethiopian processed washed grains, lightly roasted, with hints of jasmine and raspberry. Rich in chlorogenic acids.
- Ash Ethiopia Hambela : Naturally processed, with peach and cranberry flavors.
- Preparation method :
- Grind 15g of Dhuha Yirgacheffe beans to a medium grind, pour 250ml of hot water (92°C) using a Hario V60 coffee luxury funnel.
- Why is it healthy? It is diterpene-free, rich in antioxidants, and low in calories when prepared without additives.
2. Espresso
- Description : Contains trace amounts of diterpenes due to rapid extraction.
- Recommended pills :
- Ash's three elements : a blend of Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil, with berry and caramel flavors.
- El Carmen Salvador Hound : Apple and Caramel Flavors.
- Preparation method :
- Grind 18g of Ash Trio beans to a fine grind, extract 36g of espresso using the Delonghi Dedica coffee luxury machine.
- Why is it healthy? : It is low in diterpenes and contains moderate amounts of caffeine that support metabolism.
3. Cold Brew
- Description : It is prepared by steeping coffee in cold water, which produces a low acidity and low diterpene beverage if filtered through a paper filter .
- Recommended pills :
- Hound Brazil Cascaval : Medium roast, with chocolate and caramel flavors.
- Ash Red Sea Blend : with flavors of brown sugar and cocoa.
- Preparation method :
- Grind 100g of Brazil Hound beans coarsely, soak in 1 liter of cold water for 12-16 hours using a Hario Mizudashi coffee pot. Strain using a paper filter.
- Why is it healthy? : Low in diterpenes, gentle on the stomach, and ideal without additives.
4. Green coffee
- Description : Unroasted coffee beans contain a high concentration of chlorogenic acids.
- Recommended beans : Green coffee beans from Luxury Coffee (Ethiopian or Colombian sources).
- Preparation method :
- Grind 10-15g of green coffee beans to a medium grind, soak in 200ml of hot water (80°C) for 5-7 minutes, then strain.
- Why is it healthy? It is rich in antioxidants that support fat metabolism, and free of diterpenes.
Tips for drinking coffee in a way that's healthy for blood lipids
- Choose filtered coffee : Use brewing methods such as drip coffee ( Hario V60 ) or espresso ( Delonghi Dedica ) to reduce diterpenes.
- Stick to moderation : Consume 1-3 cups daily (200-400 mg of caffeine) to avoid any potential negative effects.
- Avoid high-calorie toppings : Use unsweetened almond or oat milk, or sugar-free sauces such as Sugar-Free Turani or Sugar-Free 1883 from Luxury Coffee .
- Choose lightly roasted grains : Grains like Dhuha Yirgacheffe contain higher chlorogenic acids, which support heart health.
- Proper storage : Store the beans in airtight containers such as the Airscape Coffee Canister or the Fellow Atmos from Luxury Coffee to preserve flavor and antioxidants.
- Consult your doctor : If you suffer from high cholesterol or triglycerides, consult your doctor to determine the appropriate amount.
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Frequently asked questions about coffee and blood lipids
1. Does coffee raise cholesterol levels?
Unfiltered coffee (such as Turkish coffee or French press) may raise LDL (bad) cholesterol due to diterpenes. Filtered coffee (such as drip or espresso) is safe and does not have a significant effect.
2. Does caffeine affect triglycerides?
Consuming caffeine in moderate amounts (200-400 mg daily) does not usually affect triglycerides. Excessive consumption may cause a slight increase in some people.
3. Is filtered coffee better than unfiltered coffee for heart health?
Yes, filtered coffee (such as Hario V60 drip coffee) contains fewer diterpenes, making it better for reducing its effect on cholesterol.
4. Is green coffee beneficial for blood lipids?
Yes, green coffee is rich in chlorogenic acids, which may support fat metabolism and heart health.
5. Does adding sugar and cream affect blood lipids?
Yes, high-calorie toppings can increase triglycerides and cholesterol in the long run. Choose healthier alternatives like almond milk or sugar-free torani sauces.
6. How many cups of coffee are safe for blood lipids?
Consuming 1-3 cups daily (200-400 mg of caffeine) is safe and beneficial for most people. Consult your doctor if you have cholesterol problems.
7. Does the type of grain affect blood lipids?
Lightly roasted grains (such as Dhuha Yirgacheffe ) contain higher chlorogenic acids, which may be beneficial for fat metabolism compared to dark roasting.
Read also: Does coffee cause insomnia?
Why choose coffee beans from Luxury Coffee?
At Luxury Coffee , we offer a premium selection of specialty coffee beans from Saudi roasters such as Hound , Ash , and Doha , perfect for brewing healthy coffee. We also provide brewing equipment like the Hario V60 , Hario Mizudashi , and Delonghi Dedica , as well as sugar-free sauces from Turani and 1883 Maison Routin . With free shipping and fast delivery to all cities in the Kingdom, you can enjoy high-quality coffee without worrying about your health. Shop our online store now .