Black Coffee: What Are the Benefits of Drinking It?

Black coffee is a beverage made from roasted coffee beans, brewed without the addition of milk, syrup, or cream. Consumed for its stimulating and refreshing effects, black coffee contains numerous bioactive compounds. These include caffeine, phenolic compounds like trigonelline and chlorogenic acids, which give it a unique flavor and potential health benefits. Is drinking black coffee good for you? Yes, it is a major source of dietary phytochemicals and antioxidants. In fact, a 2010 study by Ingvild Paur (University of Oslo), published in the Free Radical Biology and Medicine Journal, found that plain black coffee contributes over 50% of dietary antioxidants in many countries."

Black coffee benefits include a lower risk of several chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and liver diseases, according to the University of California and Harvard University. Additionally, research suggests that moderate consumption (three to four cups per day) does not significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease or cancer.

What is the best time to drink black coffee? Drinking black coffee in the morning is generally considered the best time to increase alertness and cognitive function. This is because caffeine blocks adenosine receptors, chemicals that promote sleepiness (Chou, 1992). However, according to a 2020 study by Harry A Smith at the University of Bath, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, drinking 2-3 cups of black coffee (approximately 300 mg caffeine) in the early morning after disrupted sleep can significantly elevate glucose by 9.27% and insulin levels by 31.91%, negatively affecting how the body processes food.

Mixing black coffee with coconut oil, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), as studied in a controlled double-blind intervention by Anna Baumeister from University Hospital Muenster, can enhance the ketogenic potential of MCT and coconut oil. Other alternatives like lemon, honey, cinnamon, olive oil, and ginger can also add flavor and health benefits to black coffee without adding additional calories.

"The best coffee to drink black, whether it's a long black or americano, is single-origin specialty coffee from high altitude regions such as Ethiopia or Colombia," says Agnieszka Rojewska, the 2018 World Barista Champion. This is because high altitudes allow coffee plants to mature slowly, developing more complex flavor profiles and luxurious tastes. At Powerbean Coffee, we understand the subtleties that make black coffee exceptional. Indulge in our collection of single-origin specialty coffees, including our Ethiopian Sidamo, Colombian Typica, and Bali Blue Moon – all hand-selected for their distinctive flavors and ideal for those who prefer their coffee black.

What Is Black Coffee?

Black coffee is simply coffee served without any additions like milk, cream, or sugar. Its name originates from the Arabic word 'quahweh' and has various linguistic derivatives like cafe, caffe, koffie, and Kaffee in different languages. There are several different types of black coffee drinks, including espresso, americano, long black, and drip coffee. Each type has its own unique flavor profile and preparation method. Popular brewing methods for black coffee include French press, AeroPress, and cold brew. The nutritional content and potential health effects of black coffee vary depending on how it is prepared.

What Is the Nutritional Value of Black Coffee?

Black coffee contains various healthy, plant-based substances, such as caffeine, chlorogenic acids, trigonelline, and melanoidins. Abrar Sualeh, a senior researcher in Coffee Processing and Quality at the Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, suggests these compounds may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, Dr. Sualeh states that the amount of these substances can vary depending on the type of coffee bean and how it's roasted.

For instance, a 2023 study by Shinjiro Ogita from Nara Institute of Science and Technology in Japan shows caffeine content in Green coffee (unroasted) differs between varieties, ranging from 0.62% to 1.21% based on dry matter basis (d.m.b.) among nine different cultivars of Arabica coffee. Additionally, a 2010 study published in Free Radical Biology and Medicine Journal by Ingvild Paur found that dark roast Black coffee may offer stronger antioxidant effects compared to lighter roasts. Other substances like guaiacol, maltol, and vanillin play roles in coffee's flavor. The table below (sourced from www.coffeeresearch.org) provides an overview of the nutritional value of various substances found in black coffee, their concentrations, and their primary health benefits.

Name of the Ingredient	Amount	Main Benefit
Guaiacol	4.2 mg/L	Adds smoky flavor and antioxidant properties.
4‐Ethylguaiacol	0.16 mg/L	Contributes to coffee's aroma and complexity.
2,3‐Butanedione	50.8 mg/L	Provides a buttery flavor; enhances aroma.
2,3‐Pentanedione	39.6 mg/L	Imparts a sweet, creamy aroma.
3‐Hydroxy‐4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐fuarone	1.47 mg/L	Potent aroma and flavor properties.
4‐Hydroxy‐2.5‐dimethyl‐3(2H)‐fuarone	109 mg/L	Contributes significantly to the sweet aroma.
Vanillin	4.8 mg/L	Provides vanilla-like aroma and antioxidant benefits.
Maltol	45 mg/L	Enhances sweetness and flavor complexity.
Furfurylmercaptane	1 ppm	Adds a burnt, coffee-like aroma.
Trigonelline	300 mg/L	Neuroprotective; may reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Methylpyridinium iodide	72 mg/L	Potentially reduces the risk of stomach cancer.
Ferulic acid	90 mg/L	Antioxidant; may protect against diseases and aging.
p‐coumaric acid	13.7 mg/L	Antioxidant properties; support heart health.
Hippuric acid	2.2 mg/L	Detoxification; indicates antimicrobial activity in diet.
4‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid	750 mg/L	Antioxidant; may reduce risk of certain chronic diseases.
Chlorogenic acid	800 mg/L	Promotes weight loss; antioxidant; may lower blood pressure.
Acetic acid	225 mg/L	Adds to the tangy taste; potential antimicrobial effects.
Quinic acid	495 mg/L	Contributes to coffee's acidity and astringency.
Formic acid	73 mg/L	Adds to the overall acidity of coffee.
Lactic acid	195 mg/L	Contributes to sour taste; potential probiotic effects.
Citric acid	461 mg/L	Adds a slight citrus flavor; enhances antioxidant content.
Malic acid	137 mg/L	Adds to the tart taste; enhances natural coffee flavor.
Nicotinic acid	50 mg/L	Vitamin B3 source; supports metabolism and skin health.
Caffeic acid (CA)	800 mg/L	Antioxidants; may reduce inflammation and the risk of diseases.
Caffeic acid phenylethyl ester (CAPE)	160 mg/L	Anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties.

The macronutrient value of black coffee is minimal, containing almost no calories or carbohydrates.

Does Black Coffee Have Calories?

Yes, black coffee does contain a small number of calories, ranging from 1-9 calories per serving. However, the exact amount depends on the type of coffee and the serving size. While a 1999 study by Paul Boekema at University Hospital Utrecht (published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology) suggests black coffee has no calories, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) database indicates that an 8 fl oz (240 mL) cup of black coffee contains 2.4 calories, and a single espresso shot (30 mL) contains 2.7 calories.

This table displays how many calories are in coffee for various types of black coffee, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Coffee Type	Serving Size	Calories (per serving)
Espresso	30 mL (single shot)	2.7
Doppio	60 mL (double shot)	5.4
Triplo	90 mL (triple shot)	8.1
Ristretto	22 mL (concentrated espresso)	1
Lungo	60 mL (long pull espresso)	3
Americano	150 mL (espresso + hot water)	2.7
Long Black	180 mL (double espresso + hot water)	5.4

Does black coffee at Starbucks have calories? Yes, it does, though the amount is minimal. A short (8 fl oz) black Americano from Starbucks contains approximately 5 calories, a grande (16 fl oz) has 15 calories, and a tall (12 fl oz) decaf Americano has 10 calories. Keep in mind that adding sugar will increase the calorie count — each teaspoon of table sugar adds about 16 calories.

While these are typical values, the exact calorie count in a cup of black coffee can vary depending on serving size and other factors. A 2009 study by Christina Huang from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that brewed black coffee from major coffee chains like Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts averaged around 63 calories per serving. This makes black coffee a much lower-calorie choice for health-conscious individuals compared to modified coffee beverages (which often contain sugar, milk, or whipped cream), averaging approximately 239 calories per serving according to the study.

What Are the Health Benefits of Black Coffee?

The health benefits of drinking coffee plain black are listed below.

1. Weight Loss Benefits Of Black Coffee
2. Fasting Benefits Of Black Coffee
3. Diabetes Benefits Of Black Coffee
4. Blood Sugar Benefits Of Black Coffee
5. Cholesterol Benefits Of Black Coffee
6. Liver Benefits Of Black Coffee
7. Asthma Benefits Of Black Coffee

1. Weight Loss Benefits Of Black Coffee

Black coffee is recognized for its potential to aid weight loss. Weight loss, which involves reducing body fat and improving body composition, is important for overall health and wellness. A 2016 study by Dina Icken from Hannover Medical School investigated how black coffee helps with weight loss, particularly during the maintenance phase. The study found that those who consumed more cups of coffee and caffeinated beverages lost more weight compared to a general population sample. Other studies suggest that black coffee promotes fat loss by boosting metabolism and fat oxidation.

• A 2019 study by Ariel Lee in Nutrients looked at data from 12 studies and found that drinking more black coffee without sugar is linked to a slight reduction in body fat, especially in men. Specifically, there was a small decrease in body mass index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on height and weight, and waist circumference for every cup consumed.
• In a 2005 trial led by Margriet S Westerterp-Plantenga from Maastricht University, high caffeine consumers lost 5.9 kg of body weight compared to low consumers during a 4-week diet intervention.
• A 2020 Nutrients Journal study by Teruhide Koyama (Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine) suggests that drinking black coffee more than once a day may reduce visceral obesity (excess fat around the abdominal organs) and metabolic syndrome in Japanese populations compared to those who did not drink coffee.

What is the best time to drink black coffee for weight loss? According to a 2017 research review by Matthew M Schubert from Auburn University at Montgomery, drinking dark roast black coffee approximately 30 minutes to 4 hours before meals seems optimal for potential weight loss benefits as it may suppress acute energy intake.

What about the roast level? Is dark roast coffee good for weight loss? Yes, the roast level of black coffee can affect its potential for weight loss. For example, a 2011 study conducted by Christine Kotyczka and colleagues from the Deutsche Forschungsanstalt für Lebensmittelchemie, found that dark roast coffee, rich in N-methylpyridinium ions (NMP) and low in chlorogenic acids (CGA), was more effective in reducing body weight. In this randomized controlled trial, pre-obese women and men who consumed the dark roast coffee, experienced a significant decrease in body weight, whereas those who consumed the light roast coffee did not.

2. Fasting Benefits Of Black Coffee

Black coffee can enhance the efficacy of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting, which involves alternating cycles of eating and fasting, optimizes metabolic health. Due to its minimal caloric content, black coffee is generally allowed during fasting periods. Numerous studies suggest it enhances metabolic markers without breaking the fast.

• In 2021, a small study by Christina M. Sciarrillo and colleagues at Oklahoma State University revealed no significant differences in fasting triglyceride and glucose levels when participants consumed black coffee before blood work. This suggests black coffee could be consumed during fasting periods without compromising blood test results. The study included ten healthy males and females and further demonstrated that drinking coffee before testing did not affect post-meal triglyceride and glucose levels.
• In a 2020 study by Derrick Johnston Alperet at the National University of Singapore, drinking 4 cups of black coffee daily for 24 weeks led to a small loss of fat mass (3.7%) and lower urinary creatinine levels, suggesting benefits beyond fasting.
• The meta-analysis conducted by Rey Juan Carlos University in 2020 confirmed that acute intake of caffeine, equivalent to 1 to 3 cups of black coffee and ranging from 2 to 7 mg/kg of body mass, significantly increases the rate of fat oxidation during exercise.

However, long-term studies exploring the effects of coffee and caffeine on insulin concentrations have revealed mixed results. In a 4-week crossover study from 2004 published in Diabetes Care Journal, regular paper-filtered coffee consumption led to higher fasting glucose concentrations initially, while fasting insulin concentrations increased after 4 weeks compared to coffee abstinence.

3. Diabetes Benefits Of Black Coffee

Black coffee helps protect against type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by high blood sugar and insulin resistance. A 2014 study by Shilpa N Bhupathiraju from Harvard School of Public Health showed that drinking 3–4 cups of black coffee per day was associated with a 25% lower risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes compared to consuming none or less than 2 cups per day.

Numerous other prospective cohort studies suggest that it also improves insulin sensitivity and reduces the risk of developing diabetes, benefiting both men and women of various backgrounds.

• A 2021 study by Hubert Kolb and his team at the University of Duesseldorf revealed that drinking regular black coffee is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes across different demographics. The study highlights that the lowering of diabetes risk by coffee does not involve acute effects on blood glucose or insulin resistance post-meal. Instead, long-term consumption of black coffee promotes resistance to the development of type 2 diabetes through cellular-level effects similar to those of phytochemicals in other dietary plants.
• Epidemiological data, including a 2013 study from the University of Helsinki indicate that adults who drink at least 7 cups of black coffee daily have half the risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to non-coffee drinkers. This association remains consistent across men and women, highlighting the potential protective effects of black coffee against diabetes.
• The study conducted by the University Medical Centre Utrecht, published in Diabetologia in 2009, found that consuming 4-6 cups of black coffee per day showed the potential to reduce the risk of diabetes by 42%. This risk reduction was not significantly different between black tea and black coffee and could not be attributed to factors such as magnesium, potassium, caffeine, or blood pressure effects.

What about those already at risk? Can black coffee help with prevention? While there's no definitive proof that black coffee prevents, stops, or causes diabetes, regular consumption seems to offer some protective benefits. This table summarizes findings from various studies on the relationship between habitual black coffee consumption and the risk of diabetes.

Study	Participants	% of Cases with Diabetes
van Dam and Feskens, 2002	17,111 Dutch adults 30–60 years old	1.79%
Ruenanen et al, 2003	19,518 Finnish adults 20–98 years old	4.38%
Tuomilehto et al, 2004	14,629 Finnish adults 35–64 years old	2.60%
Salazar-Martinez et al, 2004	126,210 US health professionals and nurses	4.29% (men), 4.85% (women)
Rosengren et al, 2004	1,361 Swedish women 39–65 years old	5.44%
van Dam et al, 2004	1,312 Dutch adults 50–74 years old	9.75%
Carlsson et al, 2004	10,652 Finnish twins 30–60 years old	3.83%
van Dam and Hu, 2005 (Meta-analysis)	193,473 from 9 international cohort studies	4.34%

So, is black coffee good for diabetes? Yes, based on prospective epidemiological studies, including a 2021 research paper by Hubert Kolb, regular coffee drinking (caffeinated or decaffeinated), had no significant effect on fasting plasma glucose and may reduce the risk of developing clinical type 2 diabetes.

4. Blood Sugar Benefits of Black Coffee

Black coffee, particularly caffeinated, can have complex effects on blood sugar levels. Blood sugar, or glucose levels in the bloodstream, is crucial for energy supply but requires careful management to prevent health complications. While caffeinated black coffee might cause a temporary increase in blood sugar immediately after consumption (1-3 hours), studies like Caio Eduardo Gonçalves Reis' 2018 systematic review suggest that long-term consumption (2-16 weeks) could be associated with improved blood sugar levels.

Interestingly, decaffeinated black coffee, as shown by studies like those from Queen Elizabeth College by D J Naismith and University of Guelph by Danielle S Battram, may even lower blood glucose levels. This suggests that compounds in coffee other than caffeine could play a role.

5. Cholesterol Benefits Of Black Coffee

Drinking black coffee influences cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is a vital lipid molecule essential for various cellular functions, including forming cell membranes, synthesizing hormones, and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins during digestion. Drinking plain black coffee is associated with increased levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein), also known as 'good' cholesterol, which is crucial for heart health.

A 2020 study at Li-Shin International Hospital, Taiwan, discovered that drinking 5 or more cups of black coffee per week noticeably boosts HDL cholesterol levels compared to drinking less. However, research from the Arctic University of Norway, part of the Tromsø Study involving over 21,000 adults, shows that 3-5 cups of espresso coffee daily raise overall cholesterol slightly, from 0.09 mmol/L to 0.16 mmol/L. Notably, brewing methods matter – boiled coffee has a stronger effect on cholesterol, while filtered coffee's impact is smaller. This highlights the complex ways different coffee preparations can interact with our bodies, potentially influencing organs like the liver.

6. Liver Benefits Of Black Coffee

Black coffee positively affects liver health. The liver is an organ responsible for detoxification, metabolism, and protein synthesis. According to a 2006 study by Arthur L Klatsky from Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, drinking black coffee has been associated with a decrease in serum concentrations of liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and γ-glutamyltransferase, indicating a lower risk of liver damage or inflammation. It's particularly good news for heavy coffee drinkers and those with chronic liver conditions, as it improves hepatic steatosis, and fibrosis, and lowers cirrhosis and cancer risks.

Other studies, including a 2014 review by Filomena Morisco from the University of Naples, have shown an inverse relationship between coffee consumption and liver enzyme activity in at-risk individuals, highlighting its protective effects over the past two decades.

The study suggests that black coffee enhances antioxidant capacity, evidenced by increased glutathione and the modulation of inflammatory mediators, as per animal and in vitro studies. While its ability to "treat" liver diseases directly remains under investigation, moderate daily intake of unsweetened coffee is a reasonable adjunct therapy for affected patients, awaiting further evidence. Could the antioxidant properties of coffee have similarly beneficial effects on those with asthma?

7. Asthma Benefits Of Black Coffee

Black coffee consumption can benefit individuals with asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by airway hyper-responsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling. Black coffee aids asthma patients by acting as a bronchodilator, reducing respiratory muscle fatigue and improving lung function, as evidenced by Emma J Welsh's 2010 Cochrane review and a 2022 UK Biobank study. Moderate consumption of 2-3 cups per day has been associated with a lower risk of adult-onset asthma, highlighting caffeine's potential protective role against this condition.

What Are the Effects of Black Coffee on the Body?

The positive effects of black coffee on the body include a reduction in fatigue, increase in metabolism, higher satiety, and temporary pain relief.

1. Black Coffee Reduces Tiredness: Drinking black coffee makes you less tired by increasing alertness and reducing fatigue, although it doesn't directly give you energy. A 1992 research study published in the Brain Research Reviews Journal showed that caffeine, the stimulant in coffee, blocks adenosine receptors in your brain, tricking your body into feeling less tired and more alert.
2. Black Coffee Increases Metabolism: A 1980 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrated that caffeine in coffee boosts metabolism and fat burning, with effects more pronounced in normal-weight individuals than in obese individuals. A 2019 review in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition further supported these findings, suggesting that doubling caffeine intake led to significant reductions in weight (22%), BMI (17%), and fat mass (28%).
3. Black Coffee Affects Appetite: In a review by Matthew M. Schubert and colleagues (Auburn University at Montgomery and Griffith University), coffee consumed 3-4.5 hours before a meal had minimal impact on food intake. However, caffeine ingested 0.5-4 hours before a meal may reduce how much you eat during that meal, according to evidence from the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition.
4. Black Coffee Ease Pain: In 2014, a University of Oxford review analyzed 20 studies (involving 7,238 participants) and found that adding one cup of black coffee (equivalent to 100 mg of caffeine or more) to common pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen increased the likelihood of significant pain relief by 5% to 10%. This effect was consistent across different pain types, including headaches, and was supported by high-quality evidence.
5. Black Coffee Helps with Headaches: Caffeine, found in black coffee, acts as an analgesic adjuvant, enhancing the efficacy of pain medications by 40%, according to a 1991 study from the University of Washington. Studies suggest that even low doses of caffeine, equivalent to the amount found in two to three cups of black coffee, may have intrinsic analgesic properties for headaches, similar to common over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen.

Apart from the aforementioned positive effects, black coffee does have some disadvantages and side effects.

What Are the Side Effects of Drinking Black Coffee?

The side effects of black coffee, primarily caused by its caffeine content, are listed below.

1. Black coffee can disrupt sleep patterns.
2. Black coffee may increase feelings of anxiety.
3. Drinking black coffee can lead to a faster heartbeat.
4. Overconsumption of black coffee might trigger migraines.
5. Black coffee can cause feelings of nausea in some individuals.
6. The acidity in black coffee can irritate the stomach lining.
7. Black coffee's diuretic effect can lead to more frequent urination.
8. Black coffee may have a laxative effect for some.

A potential drawback of black coffee is that it contributes to tooth discoloration. Does black coffee make teeth yellow? Research confirms its staining potential. Indeed, a 2022 study by the Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems and GSK Consumer Healthcare, and a 2021 study by Akdeniz University both demonstrated significant color changes in teeth exposed to coffee. The Akdeniz study further showed that pre-soaking teeth in cola or orange juice led to even more severe staining effects when followed by coffee exposure.

Does Black Coffee Make You Poop?

Yes, black coffee can make you poop by stimulating bowel movements, while beneficial in preventing constipation, it may cause discomfort. A study from the University of Iowa in 1998 found that caffeinated black coffee boosted colon activity by 60% more than water and was 23% stronger than decaf coffee, suggesting its impact on bowel movements. They used a test called ambulatory colonic manometry on 12 healthy men and women to measure this effect, showing how significant caffeinated coffee can be. Another study in Gut in 1990 by the Royal Hallamshire Hospital found that 29% of participants (mostly women) felt the urge to go after drinking black coffee, with coffee spurring movement in the rectum and sigmoid colon within just four minutes for those sensitive to its effects, making it a consideration for those fasting.

Does Black Coffee Break a Fast?

No, black coffee does not break a fast.

Researchers at Oklahoma State University found in a 2021 study that drinking black coffee on an empty stomach before an abbreviated fat tolerance test (AFTT) did not significantly alter fasting triglycerides or glucose levels. In a study of ten healthy participants, results were similar for those who consumed black coffee and those who consumed water, suggesting black coffee may not interfere with fasting metabolic markers during blood work.

A 2020 study in the Current Developments in Nutrition Journal found that drinking black coffee without sugar before a fasting blood test had no significant effect on triglyceride or glucose levels in healthy individuals. The study showed a mean difference of 7.0 mg/dL in triglycerides and no change in glucose levels. This indicates that black coffee can be consumed during a fast without affecting metabolic markers, a key concern for those maintaining ketosis, or the outcome of blood tests.

Does Black Coffee Break Ketosis?

No, black coffee does not break ketosis; it can be beneficial.

A study from April 2017 in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology by Vandenberghe et al. found that caffeine intake can boost ketone production. They discovered that doses of 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg of caffeine increased plasma ketones by 88% and 116% respectively in 10 healthy adults. While the main risk for weight gain comes from added sugars, creamers, and other high-calorie ingredients often used in coffee drinks, drinking plain black coffee, not only helps with ketosis but can also ramp up ketone levels, making it helpful for people on a ketogenic diet.

Does Black Coffee Make You Gain Weight?

No, black coffee does not make you gain weight, according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

A 2023 study from Harvard School of Public Health, involving three large US cohorts, found that for each additional cup of unsweetened caffeinated or decaffeinated black coffee consumed per day, there was a reduction in 4-year weight gain by -0.26 lbs. Conversely, adding a teaspoon of sugar to coffee was associated with a 4-year weight gain of +0.198 lbs. This suggests that black coffee itself aids in weight management, while added sugar contributes to weight gain.

Interestingly, a 2016 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (conducted by Hannover Medical School researchers) found that individuals who successfully maintained weight loss consumed significantly more coffee and caffeinated beverages than those who did not drink coffee or drank decaffeinated versions.

Is Drinking Decaf Black Coffee Bad For You?

No, drinking decaf black coffee is not inherently bad for you. Decaffeinated coffee offers many of the same health benefits as regular coffee, including a rich supply of antioxidants and the potential to reduce the risk of diseases like liver cancer and diabetes. This makes it a good choice for individuals sensitive to caffeine. While some individual studies, such as the 1993 research from Italy, suggest potential side effects of decaf coffee, these should be considered in relation to your personal health circumstances and consumption habits. If you find its bitter taste challenging, here's how to learn to enjoy black coffee for its benefits.

How to Start Drinking Black Coffee

To start drinking black coffee, understanding your genetic predisposition towards caffeine sensitivity may be more crucial than your taste for bitterness, as suggested by a 2021 study from Northwestern and Harvard Universities published in Scientific Reports. This research by Marilyn C Cornelis found that individuals with genetically inferred caffeine sensitivity showed a stronger preference for the taste of black coffee, tea, and dark chocolate over those with a genetic inclination towards bitter tastes. However, when asking "how to drink coffee black", gradually reducing the addition of milk and sweetener can help acclimate your palate to the natural flavors of black coffee, making it easier to appreciate its distinct taste and aroma.

What Can You Mix with Black Coffee to Make It More Beneficial?

Mixing coconut oil, lemon, and honey with black coffee can enhance its benefits. Lemon has been shown to reduce the glycemic response to food by lowering and delaying blood glucose concentration peaks, while honey can add antioxidants and a natural sweetening alternative. Each ingredient offers distinct benefits alongside a few considerations to bear in mind.

• Coconut oil with coffee enhances ketogenesis, as shown in a controlled double-blind intervention study, where caffeine combined with medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) from coconut oil increased ketone body levels, particularly with C8 MCTs. This additive effect on ketogenesis suggests potential benefits for those following ketogenic diets or seeking enhanced metabolic effects from their coffee.
• Lemon and coffee, when consumed separately, have been shown to offer health benefits, particularly in aiding weight loss through different mechanisms. However, there is no current evidence or studies directly linking the combination of lemon with coffee to enhanced weight loss benefits or any other specific health advantages.
• Honey with coffee may enhance its antioxidant properties, potentially increasing health benefits. Although direct evidence on adding honey to coffee is scarce, the potential benefits, as suggested by 2013 research from Portugal on lemon-flavored black tea and various types of honey, indicate that darker amber honey might offer greater antioxidant activity enhancement than lighter varieties.

How To Make Black Coffee?

There are 8 ways to make black coffee, each offering a unique flavor and brewing experience.

• Black Coffee in Pour-over: Utilizes hot water poured over grounds in a filter, with coffee dripping into a pot below.
• Black Coffee in the French press: Involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water (just off the boil), releasing rich aromas, for a 4-minute immersion, followed by a gentle press of the plunger to separate the grounds.
• Black Coffee in Percolator: Uses a two-chamber pot where water is boiled, creating steam pressure that forces near-boiling water through finely ground coffee, resulting in a concentrated, espresso-like coffee.
• Black Coffee in Pod Coffee Maker: Uses pre-packaged coffee pods in machines for quick brewing.
• Instant Black Coffee: Involves mixing 1 tablespoon of coffee crystals with 240 milliliters water for a quick cup.
• Black Iced Coffee: Brewed coffee is chilled and served over ice for a cold refreshment.
• Black Cold Brew Coffee: Grounds steep in cold water in the fridge for up to 24 hours, creating a smooth, strong coffee.
• Black AeroPress Coffee: A fast, pressurized brewing method that makes a coffee concentrate.

Research from the University of California Davis in 2022 indicates the optimal temperature range for brewing black coffee is between 58-66°C (136-151°F), which balances flavor and mouthfeel while avoiding the overly hot temperatures disliked by most consumers.

Agnieszka Rojewska, the 2018 World Barista Champion, shares tips for making black americano coffee. She recommends filling a glass with hot water, grinding fresh beans, and extracting a double espresso. After stirring, adjust the water-to-espresso ratio to your liking.

For the best experience, choose coffee beans with a robust flavor profile, a roasted aroma, balanced bitterness, and fullness. However, beans with sour, fruity, woody, musty/earthy tones, or musty/dusty and molasses flavors are less ideal because they might make the coffee less enjoyable.

What Are the Best Coffee Beans for Black Coffee?

The best coffee beans for black coffee are specialty coffee beans, sourced from high-altitude family-owned farms, offering unparalleled quality and distinct flavor profiles. These whole coffee beans undergo meticulous production and precise roasting to highlight their unique characteristics, supporting sustainable farming practices and ensuring fair compensation to growers. Powerbean Coffee sells high-quality coffee beans for black coffee, offering a superior coffee experience with every cup.

Where To Buy Best Tasting Black Coffee?

You can buy best tasting black coffee at Powerbean Coffee. We specialize in single-origin specialty coffee beans, carefully selected from high-altitude regions such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Bali. Embrace the best of the best in coffee excellence—buy your best-tasting coffee beans from Powerbean Coffee now and elevate your coffee experience.