Coffee beans: which are better for health and which stain teeth most

Studies report coffee drinkers often get a short-lived mood boost and that large studies link habitual coffee drinking with lower risks of some chronic conditions; researchers note robusta beans tend to have higher caffeine and chlorogenic acid, while arabica is generally lower in both.

Coffee is now the UK's most commonly consumed hot drink, and recent studies have renewed attention on how it affects health and daily wellbeing. Some research finds a morning mood boost for coffee drinkers and links habitual drinking with reduced risk of certain long-term conditions. Experts say the species of bean and how coffee is made influence which compounds end up in the cup. The same compounds that may contribute to health benefits can also affect digestion, anxiety and tooth colour. Key findings: - A 2023 survey reported 63% of people in the UK regularly drink coffee, compared with 59% for tea. - A recent study found coffee drinkers are often happier during the first two-and-a-half hours of the day, a likely short-term effect of caffeine on adenosine and dopamine activity. - Robusta and arabica are the main bean species: robusta typically has more caffeine and higher levels of chlorogenic acid, while arabica is generally lower in caffeine and acidity and contains more trigonelline. - Research reported that higher chlorogenic acid is linked with greater tooth staining; adding milk can reduce staining because milk proteins bind some plant acids, and hot coffee appears to cause more discolouration than iced coffee. - How coffee is prepared matters: extraction time and concentration change how much caffeine and other plant compounds are present, so a filter cup can contain more caffeine than a single espresso shot despite taste differences. Summary: The article brings together recent studies and expert commentary to show that both bean choice and brewing method shape the balance of potential benefits and downsides from coffee. Health links reported include short-term mood effects and associations with lower risk for some conditions, while higher levels of certain acids may increase tooth staining and irritate sensitive stomachs. Undetermined at this time.