Is Espresso Healthier Than Filter Coffee?

Espresso generally contains less acid and caffeine than filter coffee. In this respect, for those with a sensitive stomach or cardiovascular problems, espresso may be the healthier alternative – and the same goes for coffee substitutes. People without health problems can still use filter coffee without hesitation.

The lower acid content in espresso beans can be attributed, among other things, to the fact that they are roasted longer than beans for filter coffee. In addition, conventional filter coffee is mostly made from Robusta beans. They contain around twice as much caffeine as the Arabica beans for the espresso. Incidentally, it also tastes great cold, especially in refreshing, invigorating summer drinks such as an espresso tonic.

In addition, the preparation also plays a role in the fact that filter coffee can hit the stomach more than espresso. Espresso powder is ground finer than filter coffee powder. It is filled into the portafilter of an espresso machine and pressed firmly. Water heated to 95 degrees Celsius is pressed through the coffee layer at high pressure. The brewing process takes less than half a minute. There is not enough time before the espresso has run into the cup to flush large amounts of acid or caffeine out of the powder.

The coffee powder in the filter coffee machine, on the other hand, is ground coarser. The hot water takes between three and five minutes to run through the powder. In addition to aroma substances, the water also absorbs significantly more caffeine and acid than with espresso.

A coffee mug is also larger than a small espresso cup, so the usual amount of filter coffee consumed is significantly higher. A cup of filter coffee contains about two to three times as much caffeine as a cup of espresso. If you value the stimulating effect of caffeine and tolerate the acidity in coffee well, the hot drink from the filter coffee machine is the right choice for you. If you have a sensitive stomach or are sensitive to caffeine, it is better to enjoy a cup of espresso. Maybe in combination with warm milk like in latte macchiato or Pumpkin Spice Latte, the autumn trend drink from America. Ultimately, of course, personal taste also determines the choice of coffee.

How much coffee is healthy can therefore depend on the type of preparation and the amount. In addition, the pure enjoyment of coffee is healthier than flavoring the hot drink with cream, sugar or syrup. Especially with a high coffee consumption, additional calories are absorbed in this way.

Health-conscious people can try a fruit punch as an alternative hot drink to coffee, such as our cranberry punch!