The macchiato coffee : a pleasure for the palate or a compromise for health? While the simple aroma of an espresso can awaken the senses and kickstart the day, many people opt for a touch of milk , creating a blend that transforms not only the taste but potentially also the nutritional benefits of the coffee itself. But what really happens when milk and coffee meet in the same cup? Is it possible that this combination limits the effectiveness of the precious polyphenols in coffee? Combining milk and coffee, a common practice, might hide surprising answers: discover more in our in-depth article on the science of your favorite morning ritual.
The essentials in a few points
- ☕ Coffee is a daily ritual that involves taste and senses.
- 📊 80% of Italians consume coffee regularly, many prefer creamy versions.
- 💥 Caffeine stimulates the nervous system and can affect blood pressure.
- 🔬 Beneficial compounds, such as chlorogenic acids, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- 🥛 The addition of milk modifies the properties of the polyphenols.
Coffee as a personal ritual
Coffee is much more than just a drink. For millions of people around the world, it represents a daily ritual , a moment of pause and reflection. In Italy, coffee is an integral part of culture and society, consumed in many ways: from espresso to cappuccino , from macchiato to moka. Each preparation method carries with it a tradition and an art that has been passed down from generation to generation. The rituality of coffee involves not only taste but also the senses, from the intoxicating aroma to the gesture of bringing the cup to the mouth.
Coffee consumption in Italy
According to the Italian Coffee Report 2021 , coffee consumption is a widespread practice among Italians, with 80% of adults using it regularly. Among them, 20% prefer to add milk or plant-based beverages, transforming coffee into a creamier and sweeter drink. This habit is not just a matter of taste but also reflects a desire to diversify the sensory experience and adapt the beverage to personal nutritional and lifestyle needs.
Caffeine properties
Caffeine is one of the main components of coffee and has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system . It acts as a diuretic, stimulates the mobilization of fatty acids, and can interfere with calcium absorption. Additionally, it is known that caffeine can increase blood pressure, an aspect to consider for those with cardiovascular issues. However, it is precisely because of these properties that coffee is appreciated for its ability to enhance concentration and energy.
Beneficial compounds in coffee
In addition to caffeine, coffee contains a number of beneficial compounds, including caffeic and chlorogenic acids. These are polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and even anti-tumor effects, which contribute to reducing the risk of cancers and cardiovascular diseases, two leading causes of death worldwide. The antioxidants present in coffee help combat free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Are you ruining your coffee? Discover the right moment to drink water and enhance your experience.
The effect of milk on coffee
The addition of milk to coffee can alter the structure of caffeic and chlorogenic acids. This occurs through interaction with cysteine, an amino acid present in milk. A study conducted by the University of Copenhagen highlighted that the macchiato coffee modifies the properties of the polyphenols, reducing their antioxidant capacity but potentially increasing their anti-inflammatory activity. However, these results were obtained in a laboratory setting, and the effects on the human body are yet to be confirmed.
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The bioavailability of polyphenols
Another aspect to consider is the reduction of the bioavailability of chlorogenic acid when coffee is consumed with milk. This means that, although macchiato coffee may theoretically be more active against inflammation, its absorbability by the body is lower. Therefore, it is premature to recommend macchiato coffee as a preferred beverage for combating inflammation.
Nutritional considerations
From a nutritional standpoint, adding milk to coffee does not compromise a balanced diet, as long as attention is paid to the amount of sugar added. Milk can enrich coffee with protein and calcium, but it is important to consider one’s overall caloric and nutritional needs. In conclusion, coffee remains a versatile beverage that adapts to many personal preferences and dietary regimens, offering a mix of pleasure and potential health benefits.
