Is Decaf Coffee Really Healthier for You?

One of the main reasons people drink coffee is to wake up in the morning, or to get through the mid-day work slump.

When you consume caffeine, you introduce a molecule that competes with a molecule called "adenosine" to bind with receptors in the brain. When these receptors detect high levels of adenosine, they slow down nerve cell activity, causing fatigue. Since caffeine and adenosine are very similar, caffeine occupies these receptors, speeding up nerve cell activity and promoting alertness.

A number of people opt for decaf coffee.

How is caffeine removed? Is decaf coffee truly caffeine-free?

Coffee beans contain various substances that give coffee its unique aroma and flavor. The aim is to extract caffeine from the beans, but retain as much of the coffee flavor and aroma as possible. The process of decaffeinating coffee beans involves several hazardous and unhealthy substances, making decaf coffee somewhat problematic.

In the past, the method involved soaking coffee beans in saltwater or acid, steaming them to open their pores, and then washing them with benzene solvent. This method is no longer used because benzene is dangerous even in small quantities.

Today's method is similar: after steaming coffee beans, they are washed with methyl chloride, a chemical solvent, several times until as much caffeine as possible is removed. Methyl chloride is hazardous if frequently exposed to; the amount left in the coffee beans is minimal but accumulative in the body.

None of the methods completely remove caffeine from coffee beans. Despite being labeled "decaf," it's not entirely caffeine-free, and the amount varies depending on the type of coffee and how it is made.

Some research has found no difference between drinking regular coffee and decaf coffee, so there's no reason to switch to decaf thinking it's healthier.

A new study found that drinking decaf coffee significantly raises cholesterol levels, which may lead to vascular diseases.

Despite the low caffeine content in decaf coffee, it can lead to physical dependence.

What's essential is to consume wisely and recognize that decaf coffee is a less natural product.

Zohara Sharvit is a N.D. naturopath and iridology specialist, with extensive experience in treatment, counseling, and workshop facilitation. To book a workshop at no cost, call 073-2221290