For many office workers, the coffee machine is a daily essential, providing much-needed energy throughout the workday. However, new research suggests that coffee brewed in workplace machines may contribute to elevated cholesterol levels due to the presence of certain compounds. A study led by Uppsala University, in collaboration with Chalmers University of Technology, found that coffee from these machines contains high levels of diterpenes, which are known to raise LDL (bad) cholesterol. The findings were published in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases.
According to researcher David Iggman, the team analyzed coffee from fourteen different workplace machines, using five regular brands of ground coffee. They discovered that the levels of cholesterol-raising substances varied significantly between machines and even fluctuated at different times. In contrast, traditional drip-filter coffee makers, which use paper filters, were found to remove most of these compounds, making them a healthier choice.
The diterpenes cafestol and kahweol, known to elevate LDL cholesterol, are commonly found in unfiltered or boiled coffee. Nordic nutritional guidelines already advise reducing or avoiding boiled coffee for this reason. While some workplace coffee machines may filter out these substances more effectively than others, the study highlights the potential health risks for employees who consume multiple cups daily.
To better understand the direct impact on cholesterol levels, researchers suggest that further studies involving controlled coffee consumption are needed. Meanwhile, switching to paper-filtered coffee could be a simple way for coffee lovers to enjoy their brew while minimizing potential health risks.