Cold Brew and Summer Health: More than Just a Refreshing Pick-Me-Up

When temperatures rise, many coffee lovers swap their steaming morning cup for a glass of smooth, refreshing cold brew. While cold brew has become a summertime favorite for its flavor and convenience, it may also offer some surprising health benefits.

According to Kelly D'Agostino, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian at Shore Medical Center, both hot and cold coffee contain beneficial compounds that can support overall health.

"Coffee is made from a bean, so you're getting the nutritional benefits of the bean itself," D'Agostino explains.

One of coffee's biggest health advantages comes from its antioxidants-naturally occurring compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Research has linked antioxidants to a reduced risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer.

The primary antioxidants found in coffee are chlorogenic acids, a group of polyphenols that account for much of coffee's antioxidant activity. Coffee also contains other beneficial plant compounds, including caffeic acid, trigonelline, melanoidins, and naturally occurring diterpenes known as cafestol and kahweol. Together, these compounds contribute to coffee's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

While hot coffee typically contains slightly higher levels of antioxidants because hot water extracts more compounds from the beans, that doesn't necessarily mean it offers a greater benefit. D'Agostino notes that the antioxidants in cold brew may be more readily absorbed by the body. As a result, even though cold brew may contain somewhat fewer antioxidants overall, the body may be able to utilize a greater percentage of what it receives.

"Cold brew offers many of the same beneficial compounds found in traditional coffee, making it a refreshing way to enjoy coffee's health benefits during the summer months," says D'Agostino. "It can be a flavorful choice that contributes to hydration while delivering the antioxidants and other plant compounds naturally found in coffee beans."

As with many good things, moderation is key. While coffee contains beneficial antioxidants and plant compounds, consuming excessive amounts of caffeine can lead to unwanted side effects such as jitteriness, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and an increased heart rate. D'Agostino notes that coffee also contains naturally occurring compounds called diterpenes, which may contribute to elevated cholesterol levels when consumed in large amounts. For most healthy adults, up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, roughly three to four 8-ounce cups of coffee, is considered safe, with about 200 milligrams at one time being a reasonable guideline.

Another summertime advantage of cold brew is hydration. While coffee has long been thought to contribute to dehydration, moderate coffee consumption can actually count toward daily fluid goals.

"An 8-ounce cup or two of coffee can absolutely help contribute to hydration," says D'Agostino.

That can be especially valuable during the summer months, when staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels, supporting digestion, regulating body temperature, and preventing heat-related illness.

Of course, the healthiest cup is often the simplest one. Excessive amounts of added sugar, flavored syrups, whipped toppings, and high-calorie creamers can quickly offset coffee's natural benefits.

This summer, whether you enjoy a cold brew on the beach, by the pool, or on your morning commute, you can feel good knowing your favorite chilled beverage offers more than a caffeine boost. From beneficial antioxidants to a little extra hydration, cold brew is a refreshing way to support your health all season long.