French Press Coffee Linked to Potential Cancer Risk, Nutritionist Warns
A new warning from a leading American nutritionist suggests that brewing coffee with a French press may elevate the risk of certain cancers, including pancreatic cancer and cancers of the throat. The concern centers around the presence of naturally occurring compounds, known as diterpenes, that are more readily transferred into the beverage when using unfiltered brewing methods.
The nutritionist explained that the lack of a filter in a French press allows these diterpenes – natural oil compounds found in coffee beans – to pass into the final cup. Prolonged exposure to high levels of these compounds is believed to potentially contribute to health risks.
Unfiltered Brewing Methods Pose Greater Risk
The potential health implications aren’t limited to French press coffee. Other brewing techniques that don’t utilize filters, such as espresso, boiled coffee, and methods using traditional fireplaces, share similar concerns. These methods allow a greater concentration of diterpenes to remain in the finished drink.
“This isn’t about eliminating coffee entirely, but rather being mindful of the preparation method,” one analyst noted.
Filtered Coffee Offers a Safer Alternative
Conversely, brewing methods that incorporate filters – such as drip coffee, pour-over, and Aeropress – are considered safer options. These filters effectively reduce the amount of diterpenes present in the final beverage, potentially minimizing exposure.
The nutritionist emphasized that filtering preparation methods may significantly reduce the possibility of exposure to these compounds. While further research is needed to fully understand the extent of the risk, the findings suggest a simple modification to coffee brewing habits could have a positive impact on long-term health.
This information serves as a reminder that even seemingly harmless daily routines can have subtle but significant effects on our well-being. Choosing a filtered coffee preparation method may be a proactive step towards mitigating potential health risks associated with diterpene exposure.
