One chilled glass of cold coffee can do more for your body than you think!

Picture this: On a warm afternoon, you step into a cafe and order a glass of smooth, chilled coffee. One sip and you experience an instant refreshment – a cool kick that cheers you up and energizes you.

That’s what a cold coffee does to your body. But wait! This chilled beverage might actually be doing more good for your body than you can fathom. Cold coffee isn’t just a trendy drink; it’s a versatile option that fits into any lifestyle and is available at all coffee places in Lahore.

Recently, cold coffee has surged in popularity. Beyond its bold, mellow flavor, there are real, scientifically backed reasons to love it. Let’s walk through seven standout benefits that make cold coffee more than just a treat — it’s a smart pick!

Cold Coffee Brew: The Fundamentals

Cold coffee is a method of brewing coffee that involves the use of cold or room-temperature water. Unlike hot coffee, this chilled beverage extracts flavors slowly, resulting in a smooth, mellow, and rich drink.

The brewing method allows for flexibility in strength and taste, making it a popular choice for coffee enthusiasts. The method also serves as a base for many variations, from simple black coffee to milk-based or flavored versions.

The origins of cold coffee trace back to 17th-century Japan, where the “Kyoto-style” slow drip method was used. Modern cold brew gained popularity in the United States in the early 2000s, evolving into iced coffee, frappes, and nitro cold brew enjoyed worldwide.

7 Impressive Benefits of Cold Coffee 

As stated, cold coffee is more than a simple coffee brew – it’s a natural energy booster benefiting the body in various ways. Let’s explore some of these! 

1. A Natural Energy & Focus Booster 

Cold coffee packs a punch of beneficial elements. The caffeine amounts present in this brew stimulate the nervous system, blocking the adenosine. Alternatively, it stimulates the release of energy-giving neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, adrenaline), thereby improving focus and energy levels.

Because of how cold coffee is brewed, you often get a sustained energy lift rather than a spike. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity to caffeine varies, so moderation is key. 

2. Good Metabolism Boost 

The next impressive perk of having a cold coffee brew is its potential to speed up the body’s metabolism. Caffeine-rich cold coffee not only boosts metabolism but also burns calories.

According to PubMed research, caffeine can raise your resting metabolic rate by up to 11%. This means the body burns more calories even when resting. Over time, this effect can support weight management and fat metabolism.

Note: Moderation in caffeine intake is necessary to observe to avoid any possible side effects. Also, the caffeine effects vary and decrease as tolerance builds. 

3. Gentler on Your Stomach 

If you find hot coffee too harsh or acidic for your stomach, cold coffee may be a kinder option. Some scientific studies show that cold brew contains fewer acidic compounds compared to hot-brewed coffee, making it gentler on your digestive system. Less acidity means fewer chances of heartburn or stomach discomfort.

But that’s not all! Cold coffee beverages may also be less irritating than hot coffee based on their percentage of crude polysaccharides. These carbohydrates help strengthen your gut’s natural defenses, which can reduce irritation. It can also make your stomach less sensitive to the acidity of coffee. 

4. Rich in Antioxidants 

Cold coffee isn’t just a mood booster — it’s also loaded with antioxidants. When coffee is slowly brewed in cold water, many of its natural polyphenols and chlorogenic acids remain intact. The drink contains chlorogenic acids (CGAs) and diterpenes, which act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents.

These antioxidants help: 

• fight oxidative stress 
• protect cells from damage 
• reduce inflammation 
• Reduce heartburn  

All these together contribute to long-term health.

5. Supports Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health 

Cold brew coffee offers several health-boosting benefits, credited to its rich mix of caffeine, chlorogenic acids, and natural antioxidants. These compounds work together to support: 

• healthier blood sugar levels 
• improve insulin sensitivity 
• help regulate blood pressure 

Regular intake has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, as it may enhance circulation and reduce inflammation. The same bioactive ingredients also contribute to a reduced likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes by promoting better glucose control.  

6. Aids Hydration 

While many people believe coffee causes dehydration, cold coffee can actually improve your hydration levels. Because it’s often served with plenty of ice or blended with water or milk, each glass provides better hydration than you might expect.

The drink is chilled and refreshing, allowing you to drink it regularly in hot weather. It also helps your body stay cool, energized, and well-hydrated throughout the day. Hydration is also one of the important coffee benefits for the skin.

7. Mood Booster and Brain Health 

Cold coffee doesn’t only energize your body — it can lift your mood too. The caffeine in the drink has been shown to enhance mood, particularly among sleep-deprived individuals.

On top of that, cold coffee also contains neuroprotective compounds that may potentially reduce the risk of age-related brain diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. 

Tips to Enjoy Cold Coffee Wisely

Cold coffee, in its traditional style, does taste good. However, you can enhance your coffee-consuming experience. Here’s how! 

1. Stick to moderate amounts: Aim for 1-2 cups per day as a sweet spot — enough to tap into its health benefits, without risking too much caffeine.
2. Avoid sugary overload: Skip the heavy syrups and sugary creamers. If you want to keep the coffee healthy, dilute your cold brew or use a splash of plant-based milk.
3. Use quality beans: Medium-roasted, freshly ground coffee helps retain more of the key beneficial antioxidants.
4. Mind storage: Store your cold brew concentrate in a sealed container in the fridge and finish it within a week or so to maintain freshness.
5. Customize smartly: Add things like cinnamon or a drop of vanilla instead of sugar — you’ll keep the flavor rich without hurting the health benefits. 

The Last Sip

Cold coffee — a broader term that can be used for both iced coffee and slow-steeped cold brew — is not just a trendy treat. It’s a smart and healthy move. This chilled beverage, available in all the best cafes in Lahore, offers a lot more than just taste.

Its benefits go far beyond just a refreshing drink, improving both your physical and mental health. If you’ve been on the fence about trying a cold coffee brew, now’s a great time to start. Brew a small batch at home, savor it slowly, and let your body enjoy both the flavor and the hidden perks.

Frequently Asked Questions