By Franklin Delgado
Harvard Clinical College and the Nationwide Kidney Foundation have conducted studies examining daily coffee consumption and its effect on kidney function, identifying both benefits and precautions for certain populations.
Among the benefits of moderate coffee consumption, its diuretic effects stand out. Coffee acts as a mild diuretic, increasing glomerular filtration and promoting the elimination of fluids without the risk of dehydration in moderate quantities.
Studies also indicate that high coffee consumption could be related to a lower incidence of chronic kidney disease and a decreased risk of long-term kidney damage.
Precautions for sensitive groups
It is recommended that individuals with hypertension, hypotension, pregnancy, or low bone density consult a doctor before consuming coffee, as excess caffeine can cause complications.
Likewise, high caffeine consumption may be associated with risks such as low birth weight. Therefore, it is suggested that pregnant women limit their intake.
The study concludes that coffee may have protective effects against kidney stone formation, but it is suggested to limit coffee consumption to three or four cups a day, which is considered safe for most adults. In addition, it is preferable to avoid additives that could compromise the beneficial effects of coffee on kidney health.
Effects of coffee according to its preparation
The differences in the effects of coffee depend mainly on the concentration of caffeine, bioactive compounds, and the extraction method. For example, espresso offers a more intense and faster impact, while filtered is smoother, but with higher total caffeine.
Flavor and body. Espresso coffee, prepared under high pressure, is more concentrated, with greater acidity, bitterness and dense body due to the quickly extracted oils and lipids. On the other hand, filtered coffee (such as pour-over or drip) is lighter, less acidic and highlights complex and bright flavors, since the filter removes many oils.
Caffeine and energy. Although espresso appears stronger due to its concentration (at ~30 ml), a filtered cup (~250 ml) contains more total caffeine because the water spends more time in contact with the coffee. This creates a longer stimulating effect on the filtrate, versus the quick “shot” of the espresso.
Health and digestion. The filtrate is easier to digest due to its lower acidity and astringency, with less sediment. Espresso, however, can raise cholesterol further (up to 0.16 mmol/l with 3-5 cups daily in men) due to unfiltered compounds such as cafestol.
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