Benefits & Harms Of Decaffeinated Coffee

To combat harmful effects of caffeine, some people choose decaffeinated coffee. This coffee is obtained from coffee beans that have been treated with solvents such as hot water, ethyl acetate or benzene to remove the caffeine from the beans. But is decaffeinate coffee a better alternative to regular coffee?

Caffeine in Decaffeinated Coffee

Decaffeinated coffee is not completely caffeine-free. In fact, "Science Daily" reported in July 2006 that most decaffeinated coffees contain 8.6 to 13.9 mg of caffeine in each cup and may affect individuals sensitive to caffeine.

Benefits

Several studies, such as the one published in the October 2010 edition of the "Journal of American Science," have indicated that decaffeinated coffee may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes in laboratory animals by regulating the blood glucose levels and by improving the insulin profile. These effects may be brought about by a component of decaffeinated coffee known as cholinergic acid, which is found in regular coffee as well. However, decaffeinated coffee does not have the side effects associated with caffeine.

Another study published in the June 2007 edition of the journal "Arthritis Care and Research" states that both decaffeinated and caffeinated coffees reduce the levels of uric acid in blood and thereby reduce the risk of gout and arthritis associated with it. Components of coffee, other than caffeine, are associated with these beneficial effects as well. Unlike regular coffee, decaffeinated coffee also helps prevent preterm delivery and low-birth babies. It may also help manage social anxiety and nervousness, says Erika Bukkfalvi Hilliard, author of the book "Living Fully with Shyness and Social Anxiety."

Harms

Decaffeinated coffee, however, is not a miracle beverage and has its share of side effects. Both decaffeinated and caffeinated coffees may impact the cardiovascular system. While caffeine may increase the blood pressure, decaffeinated coffee may lead to significant increase in blood cholesterol levels, says Dr. Robert Superko, author of a study that was presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2005. High levels of cholesterol in the blood may lead to the formation of plaques, which may, in turn, increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Decaffeinated coffee is more likely to cause heartburn and although increased consumption of regular coffee is associated with reduced risk of gallstones, no such benefits were found in decaffeinated coffee drinkers.

Final Word

While decaffeinated coffee may be beneficial to certain individuals, it may lead to serious adverse reactions in others. It is, therefore, best to talk to a doctor to analyze your risk factors before choosing a beverage that is right for you.