From the Guidelines
Drinking coffee can increase Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) levels in the blood, but only if it is brewed by boiling ground coffee, as this method increases cholesterol levels. The relationship between coffee consumption and LDL cholesterol levels depends on how the coffee is prepared 1. Unfiltered coffee methods like French press, boiled coffee, or espresso can increase LDL cholesterol levels due to compounds called diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol) that are present in coffee oils. These compounds inhibit cholesterol regulation in the body. However, filtered coffee generally does not raise LDL levels significantly because the paper filter removes most of these oils. Some key points to consider:
- Consumption of more than four cups of coffee per day was associated with a lower risk of CVD in Finnish patients with DM 1.
- An exception should be made for coffee brewed by boiling ground coffee, which increases cholesterol levels 1.
- The effect also varies by individual, with some people being more sensitive to coffee's cholesterol-raising effects than others. If you're concerned about cholesterol, consider switching to filtered coffee methods, limiting unfiltered coffee consumption, or monitoring your cholesterol levels regularly if you're a heavy coffee drinker. The cholesterol-raising effect is dose-dependent, so reducing intake of unfiltered coffee can help minimize any potential impact on LDL levels.
From the Research
Effects of Coffee on LDL Levels
- The relationship between coffee consumption and LDL levels is complex, with some studies suggesting an increase in LDL levels and others indicating a decrease or no effect 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- A meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials found a dose-response relation between coffee consumption and both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, with increases in serum lipids being greater in studies of patients with hyperlipidemia and in trials of caffeinated or boiled coffee 2.
- However, another study found that regular coffee ingestion may favorably affect cardiovascular risk status by modestly reducing LDL oxidation susceptibility and decreasing LDL-cholesterol levels 3.
- The type of coffee consumed may also play a role, with boiled coffee increasing LDL levels, while filtered coffee has little to no effect 4, 6.
- Some studies suggest that coffee's phenolic compounds may be incorporated into LDL, increasing its resistance to oxidative modification and potentially reducing cardiovascular risk 5.
Factors Influencing the Effect of Coffee on LDL Levels
- The method of coffee preparation, such as boiling or filtering, may influence the effect of coffee on LDL levels 4, 6.
- The amount and frequency of coffee consumption may also play a role in determining its effect on LDL levels 2, 3.
- Individual factors, such as hyperlipidemia or other health conditions, may influence the effect of coffee on LDL levels 2, 3.