Coffee and Cholesterol

Several studies have shown that drinking unfiltered coffee brews, such as French press, Scandinavian boiled, Turkish, and cafetiere coffees can increase the serum levels of triglycerides by 26 percent, and the bad cholesterol (LDL) by approximately 10 percent. This is due to the presence of a substance in those coffee types and is responsible for their good taste. Diterpene Cafestrol (CAF) is found in the oils that are added to improve the flavor of the drink and is the most potent cholesterol elevating compound known in the human diet. If instant, filtered, and decaf coffees are consumed instead, that elevation of the serum lipid profile will not occur. You don't have to give up coffee, just how it is brewed.

Date Posted: September 12, 2006