Coffee has long been one of the most popular beverages in the world, well-known for one key component — caffeine. This stimulating substance is what gives coffee its energizing effect. However, for some people, drinking coffee can cause what is often called being “coffee drunk,” with symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and insomnia.
But human creativity knows no limits. After discovering how to make delicious coffee, people continued to study how to enjoy the same great taste without suffering from caffeine’s side effects. And that’s how decaf coffee was born.
What is Decaf Coffee?
“Decaf” is short for decaffeinated coffee, which means coffee that has had most of its caffeine removed. Specifically, at least 97% of the caffeine content is eliminated from the coffee beans before roasting.
Nutritionally, decaf coffee is very similar to regular coffee, with the main difference being its caffeine level. The color of decaffeinated beans tends to be darker brown than that of regular beans after caffeine extraction.
Many coffee lovers enjoy coffee for its unique and captivating aroma. While decaf coffee may have a slightly lighter flavor and altered color, this depends largely on the manufacturer’s processing method.
A regular cup of coffee typically contains 70–140 mg of caffeine, depending on the type and brewing method. In comparison, a 180 ml cup of decaf coffee contains only about 0–7 mg of caffeine.
Decaf coffee has become quite popular in Europe, the Americas, and several Asian countries. In Vietnam, however, it has only recently started to attract a small but growing number of consumers interested in its benefits.
Benefits of Decaf Coffee and Coffee in General
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The most obvious benefit is that drinkers no longer need to worry about the unpleasant sensations often caused by caffeine — no more jitters, palpitations, or insomnia.
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In addition, coffee — including decaf — offers several other health benefits, such as:
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Reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes
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Preventing neurodegenerative diseases
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Improving digestive health
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Supporting liver function
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Enhancing cardiovascular health
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So, if you can enjoy the wonderful taste and health benefits of coffee without worrying about getting “coffee drunk,” then decaf coffee truly offers the best of both worlds.