Quick Picks - Coffee
As an Australian, coffee is a morning staple for me and something I’m often asked about. But some of the most interesting aspects of coffee are often overlooked.
Timing / Dependence
When and why we drink coffee is probably the most relevant factor when it comes to overall health. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can sometimes cause jitters, and using it to "wake up" could indicate an underlying issue with your sleep or nervous system. Relying on coffee to boost energy may signal adrenal fatigue or improper energy regulation. It’s important to consider why we lean on coffee as a crutch and whether it’s supporting or hindering our health.
Health Benefits of Caffeine
When consumed in moderation by a healthy individual, caffeine can be quite beneficial. Beyond its energy-boosting effects, caffeine is considered a nootropic for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It can improve focus, mental clarity, and even protect against neurodegeneration. If you’re looking for a mental edge, coffee can be a helpful tool—just be mindful of your tolerance. It’s also packed with antioxidants that offer various health benefits.
Mould in Coffee
One of the lesser-known but important factors in coffee is mould. Coffee beans, especially those that are poorly stored or low-quality, can develop mould, which produces mycotoxins. These toxins are not removed by roasting and can contribute to headaches, digestive upset, and fatigue in sensitive individuals. The good news? Some brands take steps to minimize mould presence by using strict quality control and testing. In the UK, you’d do well to find better than Exhale Coffee with their subscription service. My personal favourite, and for an even cleaner option, Danger Coffee is another top choice. They promote mycotoxin-free beans, add minerals that coffee depletes, and are committed to better coffee quality.
Decaf: Swiss Method
If you love the taste of coffee but want to cut down on caffeine, decaffeination is a great option. I often go for half regular, half decaf. The most common decaf method worldwide is the solvent-based method, which typically uses methylene chloride or ethyl acetate to remove caffeine. While regulatory bodies limit solvent residue to levels considered safe, long-term exposure to these chemicals is linked to nervous system effects and even cancer in animal studies.
If you'd prefer to avoid solvents used in paint strippers or industrial cleaning, there's an alternative: The Swiss Method. Unlike other methods, it uses water to gently remove caffeine without compromising flavor or using chemicals. It’s one of the cleanest and most natural ways to decaffeinate, so you can still enjoy coffee, lower your total caffeine intake, and avoid added chemicals.
Final Thoughts
As with most things, doing it properly comes at a price. So, you can expect to spend more on solvent-free beans and on brands that go the extra mile to prevent mould and mycotoxins. I did some rough math, and decided switching to cleaner coffee at home and reducing those £4 flat whites, out and about, made sense for me. For me, it's important to invest in organic, healthy coffee that's rich in antioxidants and Vitamin B3, free from mycotoxins and pesticides, and lab-tested for quality. Plus in the case of Exhale Coffee, it’s delivered fresh to your door and is B-Corp certified, meaning they’re committed to ethical sourcing and environmental standards.
So, next time you're brewing a pot, consider the impact of your coffee—whether it’s choosing a mould-free option, or opting for chemical-free decaf, you can enjoy your cup of coffee with more awareness.