Does Coffee Have an Impact on Cholesterol

For Metis consulting services 

By Michael Bronfman

We are looking at your favorite morning beverage again this week at The  Guardrail, as we examine the link between coffee preparation methods and cholesterol levels, for heart-conscious consumers.

How Brewing Methods Shape Heart Health

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world. In the United States alone, millions of adults drink coffee every day. Coffee is often praised for its antioxidants and potential benefits for metabolism, brain health, and Type 2 diabetes risk. However, coffee also contains natural compounds that can influence cholesterol levels. Coffee brewing method plays a key role in whether those compounds reach the final cup.

This article explores how coffee affects cholesterol levels, how different brewing methods change that effect, and what current research suggests is the healthiest way to brew coffee.

Understanding Cholesterol and Heart Risk

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood. The body needs cholesterol to build cells and produce hormones, but too much can increase the risk of heart disease.

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is often called "bad cholesterol." High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as "good cholesterol," helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Diet plays a significant role in cholesterol levels. Saturated fat, trans fat, and certain food compounds can raise LDL cholesterol. Coffee contains specific compounds that fall into this category depending on its preparation.

Coffee Oils and Their Effect on Cholesterol

Coffee beans naturally contain oils. Two of the most studied compounds in these oils are cafestol and kahweol. These compounds belong to a group called diterpenes.

Research has shown that cafestol and kahweol can raise LDL cholesterol by disrupting the liver's regulation of cholesterol production and clearance. Cafestol in particular is considered one of the most potent cholesterol-raising compounds found in the human diet.

The key factor is whether these coffee oils make it into the cup. Brewing methods that allow oils to pass through result in higher diterpene intake. Brewing methods that remove oils through filtration reduce this effect.

Filtered Coffee and Cholesterol

Filtered coffee uses a paper filter to trap coffee grounds and oils. Common examples include drip coffee makers and pour-over methods that use paper filters.

Paper filters are effective at removing most cafestol and kahweol before the coffee reaches the cup. As a result, filtered coffee has little to no effect on LDL cholesterol for most people.

An extensive observational study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology examined coffee consumption among more than 500,000 adults aged 18 or older. The study found that people who drank filtered coffee had lower rates of heart disease and lower overall mortality compared with those who drank unfiltered coffee.

The authors concluded that filtered coffee was the safest option for cardiovascular health.

https://academic.oup.com/eurjpc/article/27/18/1986/5909512

French Press Coffee and Cholesterol

French press coffee does not use a paper filter. Instead, coffee grounds steep directly in hot water, and a metal mesh plunger separates the liquid from the grounds. This method allows coffee oils to remain in the final beverage.

Studies have consistently shown that French press coffee contains higher levels of cafestol and kahweol. Regular consumption of French press coffee has been linked to increased LDL cholesterol levels, especially when consumed in large amounts.

An early controlled trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that drinking unfiltered coffee significantly raised cholesterol levels compared with filtered coffee.

For individuals with elevated cholesterol, heart disease, or a family history of cardiovascular risk, French press coffee may not be the best daily choice.

Espresso and Cholesterol

Espresso is often misunderstood when it comes to cholesterol. Espresso is brewed quickly under pressure and does not use a paper filter. This means coffee oils are present in the final shot.

However, serving size matters. A typical espresso shot is much smaller than a standard cup of drip coffee. As a result, total diterpene intake may be lower even though concentration is higher.

Research suggests that moderate espresso consumption may raise cholesterol slightly but less than larger volumes of unfiltered coffee, such as French press. Drinking several espresso-based drinks per day may still contribute to increased LDL cholesterol over time.

A review published in Current Atherosclerosis Reports noted that espresso contains diterpenes, but the overall impact depends on dose and frequency.

Turkish and Greek Coffee

Turkish and Greek coffee are brewed by boiling finely ground coffee directly in water. The grounds are not filtered out before drinking. This method results in very high diterpene content.

Studies have shown that boiled coffee can raise LDL cholesterol more than any other common brewing method. Regular intake has been associated with increased cholesterol and cardiovascular risk, especially in populations with high consumption.

The same Norwegian study that examined filtered coffee found that people who drank large amounts of unfiltered coffee had higher mortality rates compared with filtered coffee drinkers.

Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for many hours. The grounds are usually removed with a filter or mesh.

Cold-brew prepared with paper filtration likely removes most diterpenes, as does hot filtered coffee. Cold brew made with metal filters may retain more oils.

There is limited research specifically on cold brew and cholesterol. However, experts generally agree that filtration matters more than temperature. Using a paper filter is the safest option for cholesterol control.

Does Coffee Raise or Lower Heart Disease Risk

Coffee contains many biologically active compounds beyond diterpenes. These include antioxidants, polyphenols, and caffeine. Some of these compounds may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support blood vessel function.

Extensive population studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and overall mortality when consumed regularly and without excessive sugar or cream.

The American Heart Association states that moderate coffee intake does not appear to increase cardiovascular risk for most healthy adults. In the article, Is Coffee Good for You or Not? 

The key distinction is brewing method. Filtered coffee appears to offer benefits without raising cholesterol, while unfiltered coffee may increase LDL cholesterol and offset potential benefits.

How Much Coffee Is Safe

Most dietary guidelines suggest that up to four hundred milligrams of caffeine per day is safe for healthy adults. This amount is roughly equal to three to five cups of brewed coffee.

People with high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders, anxiety, or sleep issues may need to limit caffeine regardless of brewing method.

Consistency also matters. Drinking coffee regularly appears to be better tolerated than drinking it sporadically. Sudden intake can raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals.

The Healthiest Way to Brew Coffee

Based on current evidence, the healthiest way to brew coffee for cholesterol and heart health is to use a paper filter.

This method removes most cholesterol-raising compounds while preserving beneficial antioxidants. Drinking filtered coffee without added sugar, flavored syrups, or high-fat creamers further supports cardiovascular health.

For those who enjoy espresso or French press coffee, moderation is key. Limiting intake and balancing with filtered coffee may reduce cholesterol impact.

Individuals with high cholesterol or established heart disease should consider switching to filtered coffee as a simple lifestyle change that may improve lipid levels.

Practical Takeaways for Patients and Clinicians

Coffee can be part of a heart-healthy diet when prepared thoughtfully. Brewing method matters more than many people realize.

Filtered coffee is associated with lower cholesterol impact and reduced cardiovascular risk. Unfiltered coffee methods allow cholesterol-raising compounds to remain in the cup.

For patients concerned about cholesterol, simple changes such as switching brewing methods can support lipid management without eliminating coffee.

As research continues, coffee remains a complex beverage with both benefits and risks. Understanding preparation methods allows consumers and clinicians to make informed choices that support long-term health.

Coffee does affect cholesterol, but the impact depends mainly on brew method. Unfiltered coffee methods, such as French press, Turkish, and boiled coffee, allow compounds that raise LDL cholesterol to pass into the drink. Filtered coffee removes these compounds and is associated with better heart outcomes.

For most people, filtered coffee consumed in moderation is the healthiest choice. Those with elevated cholesterol should pay close attention to brewing method as part of a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health.

Coffee is not just about taste or routine. It is also about chemistry and preparation. Small changes in coffee preparation can lead to meaningful differences in long-term health outcomes.

Employee wellness directly impacts productivity and long-term success; understanding the science behind daily habits is essential. Contact Metis Consulting Services today  for more info: Hello@metisconsultingservices.com