Optimal Health Daily - Fitness and Nutrition 3386: Instant Coffee: Good or Bad? by Adda Bjarnadottir with Healthline on Instant Coffee Facts
6 snips
May 6, 2026 A lively dive into how instant coffee is made and why it packs many of the same antioxidants and nutrients as brewed coffee. Short comparison of caffeine content and decaf options. A clear look at acrylamide levels and safety. Practical tips on convenience, servings, and timing for performance and sleep.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
How Instant Coffee Is Made
- Instant coffee is made from brewed coffee extract with the water removed, produced by spray drying or freeze drying.
- The extract is brewed from ground beans then dried into powder or fragments that dissolve instantly in hot water, preserving aroma and flavor.
Instant Coffee Packs Antioxidants
- Instant coffee contains many of the same powerful antioxidants as regular coffee and can be a major dietary antioxidant source.
- One study found instant coffee may have higher levels of certain antioxidants, and one cup has about 7 calories plus small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and niacin.
Instant Coffee Has Less Caffeine
- Instant coffee generally contains slightly less caffeine than regular brewed coffee, roughly 30–90 mg per teaspoon-based cup.
- Regular coffee typically contains 70–140 mg per cup, so instant may suit people reducing caffeine intake or those using decaf options.