If you’re looking to get the most out of your cup, there are a few brewing methods and tips experts swear by.
French Press or Pour-Over for Purity
Experts often recommend brewing your coffee using a French press or pour-over method. These methods are known to preserve the natural oils and antioxidants in coffee. This is because they require the least amount of processing. Unlike drip coffee makers that use paper filters, these methods allow more of the coffee’s beneficial compounds, like polyphenols, to stay in your cup. This not only enhances the flavour but also retains those antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health.
Bulletproof Coffee for Brain Health
Some health enthusiasts take their coffee to another level. They do this by adding a healthy fat source like coconut oil or grass-fed butter. This so-called “bulletproof coffee” trend isn’t just about taste—it’s thought to boost brain health and energy levels. By adding these fats, your body is fuelled for a longer time. The combination of caffeine and fat can keep you sharp and focused throughout the day.
The Longevity Coffee
Now, enter Dan Buettner—National Geographic fellow, Blue Zones founder, and longevity expert. Buettner, who has spent years studying the lifestyle habits of the world’s longest-living populations, shares his top tips for living longer, and coffee is high on his list. But not just any coffee: Buettner’s all-time favourite brew is Ikaria coffee, also known as Turkish coffee, which comes from Ikaria, Greece, one of the world’s Blue Zones.
Why Ikaria Coffee Stands Out
Ikaria coffee is finely ground and then boiled, which Buettner says brings out heart-healthy oils and polyphenols. These polyphenols, powerful antioxidants, are believed to be one of the reasons coffee drinkers in Ikaria live longer. In fact, a 2013 study published in “Vascular Medicine” found that elderly participants who drank boiled Ikaria coffee showed improved endothelial function, which is key for heart health and blood circulation.
Polyphenols aren’t just limited to Ikaria coffee. Another large European study reported that higher intake of polyphenols was associated with a longer life span. So, it’s clear that this antioxidant-rich brew can do more than just give you a morning boost—it may actually support your longevity.
No Ikaria Coffee? No Problem.
If you can’t find Ikaria coffee, don’t worry. Buettner highlights that coffee itself is a staple in other Blue Zones regions as well, including Sardinia and Nicoya. “It’s one of those beverages you can enjoy guilt-free, and it’s probably good for you, too,” he says.
So, whether you’re brewing a pour-over, blending up some bulletproof coffee, or tracking down some Ikaria beans, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy a healthier cup of joe.
Just remember: how you brew it might be the key to getting the most out of every sip!
