Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Whether you enjoy a simple cup of black coffee or a fancy, functional coffee, there’s no denying the fact that coffee has become a cultural staple. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which type of coffee is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll compare functional coffee and regular coffee and help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
What is functional coffee?
Functional coffee refers to a type of coffee that is infused with additional ingredients that provide specific health benefits beyond the caffeine buzz. These ingredients can vary, but commonly include Adaptogens, herbs, mushrooms, or other supplements.
For example, some functional coffees may contain ingredients such as turmeric, collagen, MCT oil, or probiotics. These ingredients are added to coffee to enhance its health benefits and provide a functional boost to the drinker.
Functional coffee is becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers who are looking for ways to boost their energy, focus, and overall health. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of functional coffee depends on the specific ingredients used and the individual’s unique needs and health goals. As with any supplement, it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before adding functional coffee to your diet.
MCT stands for medium-chain triglycerides. These are a type of saturated fatty acid that is commonly found in coconut oil, palm oil, and dairy products. MCT oil is a concentrated source of these fatty acids that is commonly added to functional coffee.
Health Benefits of Functional Coffee:
Functional coffee is a newer type of coffee that has been gaining popularity in recent years. This type of coffee is typically blended with various functional ingredients, such as MCT oil, collagen, and Adaptogens. Each of these ingredients has its own unique health benefits.
For example, MCT oil is a type of fat that is quickly absorbed and used by the body for energy. It has been shown to improve cognitive function, promote weight loss, and reduce inflammation. Collagen is a protein that is found in the body’s connective tissues, such as skin, bones, and tendons. It has been shown to improve skin health, reduce joint pain, and promote muscle growth. Adaptogens are natural substances that can help the body adapt to stress and improve overall wellness.
When these functional ingredients are combined with coffee, they create a powerful drink that can provide numerous health benefits. For example, functional coffee can help improve cognitive function, promote weight loss, reduce inflammation, and more.
Health Benefits of Regular Coffee:
Regular coffee, on the other hand, has its own set of health benefits. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Additionally, coffee has been shown to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, improve cognitive function, and even increase longevity.
One study found that coffee drinkers who consumed 3-5 cups of coffee per day had a lower risk of death from all causes, including heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, and diabetes. Another study found that coffee consumption was associated with a reduced risk of depression.
Drawbacks of Functional Coffee:
While functional coffee has numerous health benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. For example, functional coffee can be more expensive than regular coffee due to the added functional ingredients. Additionally, some people may not enjoy the taste of functional coffee, as the added ingredients can alter the flavor.
Another potential drawback of functional coffee is that some of the added ingredients may cause digestive issues in some people. For example, MCT oil can cause diarrhea and other digestive issues in some individuals. Additionally, some of the added ingredients may not be suitable for everyone. For example, some Adaptogens may interact with certain medications, so it’s important to check with a healthcare provider before consuming functional coffee.
Drawbacks of Regular Coffee:
Regular coffee also has its own set of potential drawbacks. For example, some people may experience digestive issues or heartburn after drinking coffee, especially if they consume too much or have a sensitivity to caffeine. Additionally, some people may become dependent on caffeine and experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.
Another potential drawback of regular coffee is that it can be acidic, which can cause tooth enamel erosion and other dental issues. However, this can be mitigated by consuming coffee with food or using a non-acidic coffee.
Choosing the Right Coffee for You:
When it comes to choosing between functional coffee and regular coffee, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and goals. If you’re looking for a coffee that provides numerous health benefits and don’t mind spending a little extra, functional coffee may be the best choice for you. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer the taste of regular coffee, then sticking with a simple cup of black coffee may be the better option.
It’s also important to consider any potential health issues or medication interactions before consuming functional coffee. If you have any concerns or medical conditions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.
Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of the coffee you’re consuming. Both functional and regular coffee can be made from low-quality beans that are heavily processed and contain harmful chemicals. Opting for organic, fair trade coffee that is sustainably sourced can ensure that you’re getting the best quality coffee possible.
In summary, both functional coffee and regular coffee can provide numerous health benefits, but they each have their own potential drawbacks to consider. When choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and goals. By paying attention to the quality of the coffee you’re consuming and any potential health concerns, you can enjoy your coffee while reaping its health benefits. So go ahead, pour yourself a cup of your preferred coffee, and enjoy it mindfully!
References:
- Buchwald-Werner, S., Fujii, T., Reule, C., Schoen, C., & Winkler, P. (2017). High-Performance Coffee with Yerba Mate: Coffee Mixture Enhances Physical Performance. Nutrients, 9(4), 334. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5409674/
- Debrah, K., Haizel, R. A., & Owusu-Ansah, E. (2021). The Effects of Functional Coffee on Health: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism, 2021, 1-9. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jnme/2021/6692437/
- Kim, J. E., & Kim, T. H. (2020). Effect of green coffee bean extract supplementation on lipid profile and biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrition Journal, 19(1), 1-8. https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12937-020-00570-3
- Loh, S. P., Ooi, F. K., Chye, F. Y., & Chong, P. P. (2019). Effect of functional coffee on cognitive function and blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. European Journal of Nutrition, 58(6), 2241-2251. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00394-019-01977-8
- Park, S. J., Lee, H. S., & Ahn, C. S. (2019). Health functional properties of coffee: a comprehensive review. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition, 48(5), 379-395. https://www.koreascience.or.kr/article/JAKO201926439236188.page
- Pizzorno, J. (2020). Functional Coffee: Is It Worth the Hype? Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, 19(4), 44-47. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7477665/
