For many people in the UAE, coffee is an essential part of the daily routine. But the way it is prepared and consumed may matter as much as the amount.
According to Dr Mansoor Anwar Habib, a consultant in family medicine and occupational health, coffee contains antioxidants and compounds that may offer cardiovascular benefits when consumed appropriately.
Research has linked regular coffee consumption with several markers associated with better heart health, including improved insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation and a reduced risk of some cardiovascular problems.
However, the potential benefits do not mean that more coffee is always better. Dr Habib highlights three key factors: quantity, preparation method and what is added to the drink.
1. Keep coffee consumption moderate
Dr Habib recommends between one and five cups of coffee a day for generally healthy adults, with five cups regarded as an upper limit.
Some studies have associated moderate coffee consumption with a lower risk of conditions such as heart failure, stroke and coronary disease. However, excessive caffeine intake can produce unwanted effects, including increased heart rate, sleep problems and temporary rises in blood pressure.
The appropriate amount can also vary depending on an individual’s health, caffeine sensitivity and other dietary habits.
2. Choose paper-filtered coffee
The preparation method is another important consideration, particularly for people concerned about cholesterol.
Coffee contains natural oils that include cafestol, a compound that can raise LDL, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol. Paper filters can trap much of these oils before the coffee reaches the cup.
By contrast, unfiltered preparations such as Turkish coffee, French press, moka pot and some traditionally boiled coffees allow more of these compounds to remain in the drink.
For people with elevated LDL cholesterol, switching to paper-filtered options such as drip coffee, V60 or Chemex may therefore be a useful dietary choice.
3. Be careful with added sugar and calories
The third consideration is what goes into the coffee.
Plain black coffee contains very few calories, but adding sugar, flavoured syrups, cream or other high-calorie ingredients can significantly change its nutritional profile.
Regularly consuming large amounts of added sugar can contribute to weight gain and metabolic problems, potentially offsetting some of the benefits associated with moderate coffee consumption.
For those looking to keep their coffee as heart-friendly as possible, unsweetened black coffee is the simplest option.
Who should be cautious?
Coffee is not suitable in the same way for everyone. People with severe or poorly controlled high blood pressure may need to limit caffeine because it can temporarily raise blood pressure.
Those with high LDL cholesterol may also benefit from choosing filtered coffee over unfiltered preparations.
Anyone with an existing heart condition, significant blood-pressure concerns or sensitivity to caffeine should speak with a healthcare professional before making major changes to their coffee intake.
Ultimately, coffee can fit into a healthy lifestyle for many adults, but moderation and preparation matter. A simple cup of paper-filtered, unsweetened coffee may offer potential benefits without adding unnecessary sugar, saturated fat or excess calories.
