Is Ice Coffee Good for You?
Posted by SIMON LIM
There is no doubt that ice coffee is a delicious drink, but is ice coffee good for you?
In this blog post, we will take a look at the pros and cons of drinking ice coffee. We will also discuss the health benefits and drawbacks of this popular beverage. So, Is ice coffee good for you? Let's find out!
What is in Your Iced Coffee?
Iced coffee can be made with either cold brew or hot brew methods.
- Cold brew iced coffee is made by steeping ground coffee beans in cold water for 12-24 hours.
- Hot brew iced coffee is made by brewing hot coffee and pouring it over ice.
Iced coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially during summer. This refreshing beverage can be enjoyed at home or on the go.
Iced coffee is a low-calorie drink that can be a great way to get your daily dose of caffeine. A typical cup of iced coffee contains around 100 calories and 12 grams sugar. Iced coffee also contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and niacin.
Health Benefits of Drinking Iced Coffee
Iced coffee can offer some health benefits, such as:
- Boosting energy levels: Iced coffee contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that can help increase energy levels and improve mental alertness.
- Enhancing physical performance: Caffeine has been shown to improve physical performance by increasing adrenaline levels and delaying fatigue.
- Improving cognitive function: Caffeine has been shown to improve memory and reaction time.
- Reducing the risk of disease: Some studies have shown that coffee consumption (both hot and cold) may help to reduce the risk of diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and type II diabetes.
Drawbacks of Drinking Iced Coffee
Although iced coffee can offer some health benefits, there are also some drawbacks. These include:
- Dehydration: Because iced coffee is a diuretic, it can cause dehydration if you drink too much. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Insomnia: Caffeine can stay in your system for up to six hours, so drinking iced coffee late in the day can lead to insomnia. If you are sensitive to caffeine, it is best to avoid drinking iced coffee in the afternoon.
- Digestive issues: Iced coffee can also cause digestive problems, such as heartburn and upset stomach. Drinking iced coffee in moderation is best if you have a sensitive stomach.
How to Make a Healthy Iced Coffee?
- Be aware of how much sugar and caffeine is added to your drink.
Whether grabbing an iced coffee on your way to work or enjoying one at home, it's essential to know how much sugar and caffeine is in your drink. The iced coffee you're drinking could hide a few more calories than expected. For every gram of sugar in your drink, there are 4 calories which means that even a small-sized cup can have extra calories!
- Skip creams and syrups and go for healthier alternatives
Iced coffee is a refreshing summer treat but can also be a calorie bomb. If you're looking for a healthier way to enjoy iced coffee, you can make a few simple swaps. First, skip the heavy cream and opt for milk or almond milk instead. You can also ditch the sugary syrups in favor of natural sweeteners like honey or agave nectar.
- Dilute your cold brew coffee.
Many people make the mistake of thinking that they need to double the amount of coffee grounds when making cold brews. But this will make your coffee too concentrated. As a result, you'll end up with a coffee that is high in caffeine and low in flavor.
- Limit yourself to one cup per day.
This may seem common sense, but it's easy to get carried away when sipping an iced coffee. Limiting yourself to one cup will ensure you don't overdo your caffeine intake and feel jittery or anxious.
So, Is Ice Coffee Good for You?
As you can see, drinking iced coffee has pros and cons. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to drink iced coffee is up to you. If you enjoy iced coffee and don't experience any negative side effects, then there is no reason why you shouldn't continue to enjoy this refreshing beverage.
However, if you are sensitive to caffeine or have a sensitive stomach, it is best to avoid drinking iced coffee or limit your consumption.
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