Whether you like your coffee black or with a little milk and sugar, there’s no denying that this beverage is one of the most popular in the world. Coffee is known for its energizing properties, but did you know that it can also be beneficial for your health?
What is black coffee?
Black coffee remains undefeated for people who wish to enjoy the unadulterated taste of coffee. It’s consumed without additives such as sugar, cream, flavors, and milk. Despite having a slightly bitter taste, black coffee enthusiasts relish its uniqueness. A study showed black coffee forms part of the everyday diet for most people. However, most people are unaware of the health benefits and side effects of drinking black coffee. Luckily, this article critically delves into these issues.
Fun fact
Black coffee enthusiasts contend there is no other way to drink coffee. In short, a quality coffee worth its name strictly comprises coffee and water.
What do you think of this assertion?
Ways of Making Black Coffee
There are three main ways to make black coffee: instant, fresh and decaffeinated.
- Instant coffee: Instant coffee is made by dissolving coffee granules in hot water. It’s the quickest and most convenient way to make black coffee, but some people say it doesn’t taste as good as fresh or decaf.
- Fresh black coffee: Fresh black coffee is made by brewing ground coffee beans in hot water. This method takes a little longer than making instant coffee, but it’s worth it for the improved taste. In later sections of the article, we shall look at some of the methods often used to bring out the pure taste of black coffee.
- Decaffeinated black coffee: Decaffeinated black coffee is made using coffee beans that have had most of the caffeine removed. This makes it a good choice if you’re looking to cut down on your caffeine intake. Effects of caffeine include increased heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety.
Coffee tip 1
Caffeine is the addictive element present in coffee. Therefore, when one wants to escape physical dependence on coffee, it’s imperative to make responsible choices. Always remember too much of anything, including coffee, is poisonous. Figuratively.
1- How to Make Black Coffee in a Moka Pot
The Moka pot is a stovetop coffee maker that’s popular in many homes. It’s easy to use and makes a great cup of black coffee.
Here’s how to make black coffee in a Moka pot:
1. Fill the base of the Moka pot with water and screw on the top section.
2. Insert the coffee filter and fill it with ground coffee.
3. Place the Moka pot on the stove and heat it until the water boils and starts to come out of the spout.
4. Remove the Moka pot from the heat and pour the coffee into a cup. Enjoy!
2- Making Black Coffee Using a French Press
A French press is another popular way to make black coffee. This method takes a little longer than using a Moka pot, but it’s worth it for the improved taste.
Here’s how to make black coffee using a French press:
1. Boil water and let it cool for about 30 seconds. This step is important because boiling water will make the coffee taste burnt.
2. Pour the water into the French press and add the ground coffee.
3. Stir the mixture and put the lid on the French press.
4. Wait for 4 minutes, then press down on the plunger to filter out the coffee grounds.
5. Pour the coffee into a cup and enjoy!
3- Making Black Coffee in a Drip Machine
Drip machines are commonly used in offices and restaurants to make black coffee. This method is quick and easy, but some people say it doesn’t make the best-tasting coffee.
Here’s how to make black coffee in a drip machine:
1. Fill the water reservoir with fresh, cold water.
2. Place a coffee filter in the filter holder and fill it with ground coffee.
3. Place a cup under the coffee spout and press the brew button.
4. The coffee will start to drip into the cup. Once it’s finished brewing, enjoy!
Coffee tip 2
The ideal grind size for making black coffee in a Moka pot is medium-fine. This will give you the best flavor and prevent the coffee from being too weak or too strong.
4- How to Make Black Coffee Without a Coffee Maker
If you don’t have a coffee maker, don’t worry – you can still make black coffee without one. All you need is a pot, some ground coffee, and some hot water.
Here’s how to make black coffee without a coffee maker:
1. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Remove the pot from the heat and add two tablespoons of ground coffee for every cup of water.
3. Stir the coffee and let it steep for four minutes.
4. Use a coffee filter or cheesecloth to strain the coffee into a cup.
10 Side Effects of Drinking Black Coffee
Drinking black coffee can have some side effects, especially if you’re not used to it. These side effects are usually mild and go away after a few days.
The most common side effects of drinking black coffee include:
- Increased heart rate: It’s attributed to the initial surge and jittery caffeine provided upon consumption.
- Increased blood pressure: As the body’s hormonal production rises, the heart rate increases to cope, and this leads to high blood pressure.
- Anxiety: When you consume too much black coffee, the body releases high levels of stress hormones. This leads to increased stress and nervousness. One also feels jittery after consuming large amounts of caffeine.
- Nervousness: This has been associated with the release of stress hormones.
- Insomnia: It’s highly recommended for you avoid drinking large amounts of black coffee before retiring to bed. Caffeine seriously interrupts sleeping patterns.
- Headache: It should be seen from an addictive perspective. When one relies on black coffee, any withdrawal causes headaches.
- Dizziness: Caffeine causes a surge of energy in the body. Therefore, before drinking black coffee, one can experience feelings of weakness and dizziness.
- Upset stomach: Due to high acid levels, black coffee causes stomach cramps and abdominal spasms.
- Diarrhea: When consumed on an empty stomach, black coffee destabilizes internal systems and can easily result in diarrhea.
- Constipation: High caffeine levels limit your body’s ability to absorb minerals such as iron, zinc, and calcium, and this leads to constipation.
Also read: Does Black Coffee Raise Blood Sugar?
Is black coffee safe for pregnant women?
Black coffee is generally safe to drink but beware of the side effects. If you’re pregnant, it’s best to limit your black coffee intake to 200mg per day. However, talk to your physician for general directions. No one wants to jeopardize the health of the unborn.
Health Benefits of Black Coffee
- Weight Loss: black coffee aids in weight loss by increasing metabolism and provides energy for workout routines.
- Alertness: The caffeine present in black coffee leads to increased alertness, focus, and concentration.
- Lower Risk of Diabetes: black coffee can lower the risk of type 2 diabetes by improving the way the body uses insulin.
- Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s: black coffee can lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
- Reduced Risk of Cancer: black coffee can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as colon cancer.
- Good for the Liver: black coffee can help to prevent the development of fatty liver disease.
- Pain Relief: black coffee can provide pain relief from headaches, muscle pain, and toothaches.
- Antioxidant: Black coffee is also a good source of antioxidants and can help improve your cognitive function.
So next time you need an energy boost, reach for a black coffee instead of an energy drink. Your body will thank you for it!
Conclusion
All said and done, black coffee is a delicious and healthy beverage that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Black coffee carries a plethora of benefits that range from physical to mental health. Although some side effects exist, they are usually mild and go away quickly. Pregnant women and those with heart conditions should limit their black coffee intake. Overall, black coffee is a healthy drink that can be enjoyed by all.