Hot Coffee vs. Cold Coffee: Which Offers Better Health Benefits?

For coffee enthusiasts, the changing seasons often influence their daily coffee rituals. As winter approaches, that refreshing cup of iced or cold brew may be swapped for a steaming hot coffee, sometimes even enhanced with special flavors to suit the season.

Regardless of whether it’s iced, cold, or hot coffee, all varieties deliver the caffeine boost people rely on. However, a new study suggests that for health-conscious individuals, hot coffee may have the edge over its chilled counterparts. Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia analyzed and compared the acidity and antioxidant activity of cold and hot coffee.

Good News for Hot Coffee Lovers?

Indeed, hot coffee boasts higher antioxidant activity. Antioxidants act as the body's natural defense agents, and their presence in coffee is linked to various health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and premature death.

“In terms of modulation, research shows that coffee offers significant health benefits,” said Dr. Megan Fuller, co-author of the study and an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry at Thomas Jefferson University. “We also discovered that hot coffee possesses stronger antioxidant potential,” Dr. Fuller added.

However, both Dr. Fuller and her co-author, Dr. Niny Rao, an associate professor in the same department, emphasized in their study that “future research is needed to fully understand how brewing temperature and time may influence the potential health effects of coffee.”

What About Acidity?

Interestingly, Fuller and Rao found that the acidity levels of hot and cold coffee were quite similar. Historically, cold brew has been perceived as less acidic than hot coffee, making it a gentler option for those with sensitive stomachs.

Yet, in this new study, the pH levels of the sampled cold and hot coffee ranged from 4.85 to 5.13. Based on these findings, Dr. Rao stated in a public release, “Reaching for a cup of cold brew shouldn’t be considered a silver bullet solution for those seeking caffeine without worrying about gastrointestinal discomfort.”

Cold Coffee Still Holds Its Own

Fans of iced and cold coffee need not worry. Your favorite chilled brews still contain beneficial antioxidants. Just like in other hot foods, antioxidants such as polyphenols and minerals play a role in promoting health.

Moreover, cold coffee has its unique charm: it often offers a naturally sweeter and smoother flavor. Dr. Frank Hu, Dean of the Harvard School of Public Health and a professor of epidemiology and nutrition, shared with Health magazine that cold coffee’s distinctive taste usually eliminates the need for adding extra fats or calories like cream, milk, or sugar, preserving its original appeal.

That said, occasionally enjoying a cup of hot coffee with its enhanced antioxidant properties can be an excellent choice for coffee lovers seeking both flavor and health benefits.