Coffee brewing method, causitive factor of raised cholesterol

A recent research published in the open- access journal Open Heart that drew data from 21,083 participants where the participants were asked how many daily cups of coffee they drank—none, 1–2 cups; 3–5; and 6 or more—and what brew type they drank—whether it was filtered; plunger (cafetière); espresso from coffee machines, pods, mocha pots, etc; or an instant form.

Blood samples were taken, and height and weight were measured. Information was also sought on potentially influential factors including diet and lifestyle, including smoking, alcohol intake, and physical activity; educational attainment; and whether type 2 diabetes had been diagnosed. Women drank an average of just under 4 cups of coffee every day while men drank an average of nearly 5.

Analysis of the data showed that the association between coffee and serum total cholesterol varied, depending on the brewing method, with significant sex differences for all brew types. It was found that drinking 3–5 daily cups of espresso was significantly associated with increased serum total cholesterol, particularly among men.

While instant coffee was associated with an increase in cholesterol in both sexes, this didn't rise with the number of cups drunk, when compared with those who didn't opt for coffee powder/granules.

Experimental studies show that cafestol and kahweol, as well as increasing total cholesterol, have anti-inflammatory effects, protect the liver, and lessen the risks of cancer and diabetes as well.