Is Arabic coffee too strong for your nutrition diet?

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Despite its bold, aromatic reputation, a 2018 study found that a typical cup of Arabic coffee contains significantly less caffeine than instant or Turkish coffee. So, is Arabic coffee too strong? The answer might surprise you, especially when considering a balanced nutrition diet, as its traditional preparation results in a remarkably mild brew.

Quick Summary

Arabic coffee, or qahwa, is traditionally brewed from lightly roasted Arabica beans, resulting in a milder flavor and lower caffeine content compared to other coffee varieties. When consumed black and in moderation, it is nearly calorie-free and offers nutritional benefits from antioxidants and spices like cardamom. The strength perception is more about aroma and cultural tradition than actual caffeine level or potency.

Key Points

Low Caffeine: Arabic coffee is typically low to moderate in caffeine, especially when compared to espresso or instant coffee, due to the use of lightly roasted Arabica beans.
High in Antioxidants: The brew is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and chlorogenic acid, which offer numerous health benefits for the heart and metabolism.
Calorie-Free when Black: Unsweetened Arabic coffee contains virtually no calories, making it a diet-friendly beverage choice.
Spices Add Health Benefits: The inclusion of spices like cardamom not only adds aroma but also contributes anti-inflammatory properties and other health advantages.
Mind the Accompaniments: Calorie intake can increase significantly when Arabic coffee is consumed with traditional high-calorie accompaniments like dates or chocolate.
Gentle on the Stomach: Arabica beans are generally less acidic than Robusta, making Arabic coffee a milder option for those with sensitive digestive systems.

Debunking the Myth: Is Arabic coffee too strong?

For many, the image of Arabic coffee is one of intense flavor and potent effect. This perception is rooted in its cultural significance and ceremonial service, but the reality of its composition and brewing method paints a different picture. Contrary to the myth, Arabic coffee is not considered strong in terms of caffeine or flavor intensity compared to common varieties like Turkish coffee or espresso. This is largely due to three primary factors: the type of bean used, the roast level, and the brewing method.

Traditionally, Arabic coffee uses 100% Arabica beans, which naturally contain about half the caffeine of Robusta beans. Furthermore, the beans are typically roasted to a light or medium-light level, which preserves their delicate, complex flavor profile but doesn't concentrate caffeine as much as a dark roast would. The brew is also prepared by simmering the grounds with water, rather than being pressure-extracted, and is served in small, thimble-sized cups called finjans. The small serving size ensures that the overall caffeine dose per serving is low to moderate. In essence, the strength of the flavor comes from the aromatic spices, not from an overwhelming caffeine kick.

The Nutrition Profile of Traditional Arabic Coffee

When enjoyed in its traditional, unsweetened form, Arabic coffee offers a surprising array of nutritional benefits. A single small cup is essentially calorie-free and devoid of fat and carbohydrates. Its nutritional value comes from a blend of beneficial compounds and the addition of spices.

Antioxidant Power and Health Benefits

Arabic coffee is a rich source of antioxidants, including chlorogenic acid and other polyphenols, which are known to combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. This potent antioxidant activity has been linked to numerous health benefits:

Cardiovascular Health: Moderate consumption can help reduce inflammation and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke. A 2023 study even found that Arabic coffee was effective in reducing blood pressure in patients with stage one hypertension.
Brain Function: The moderate caffeine and antioxidant content can enhance cognitive function, focus, and memory without the jitteriness associated with higher-caffeine beverages.
Metabolic Health: Chlorogenic acid may help boost metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Liver Support: Some studies suggest that coffee consumption may reduce the risk of liver diseases like cirrhosis and fatty liver.

The Spices: A Healthful Addition

Unlike most Western coffees, Arabic coffee is almost always brewed with spices like cardamom, saffron, and cloves, which contribute to its distinct aroma and offer their own health-promoting properties. For instance, cardamom is noted for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help lower blood pressure. These spices elevate the health profile of the beverage beyond just the coffee beans themselves.

Arabic Coffee vs. Other Popular Coffee Varieties

To better understand why Arabic coffee is not typically "too strong," here is a comparison with other popular coffee types based on their preparation and typical caffeine levels per serving. This table highlights how factors like bean type, roast, and brewing method contribute to the final product's strength.


Feature	Arabic Coffee	Turkish Coffee	Standard Drip Coffee	Espresso	Cold Brew
Bean Type	100% Arabica	Primarily Arabica, often blended with Robusta	100% Arabica or blend	Arabica or Arabica/Robusta blend	Arabica or blend
Roast Level	Light	Medium to Dark	Medium	Dark	Medium to Dark
Caffeine (per standard serving)	Low to Moderate (15–40 mg per finjan)	High (80+ mg per demitasse)	Moderate (100–150 mg per 8 oz cup)	High (63 mg per 1 oz shot)	Very High (150–200+ mg per 12 oz cup)
Preparation	Simmered in a dallah with spices	Boiled in a cezve with fine grounds	Filtered through a paper filter	Pressure-extracted through fine grounds	Steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours
Flavor Profile	Mild, aromatic, spiced, often delicate	Bold, unfiltered, intense, finely textured	Clean, balanced, can vary widely by roast	Concentrated, rich, bold, intense	Smooth, low-acid, concentrated, robust

How to Incorporate Arabic Coffee into Your Nutrition Diet

While traditional Arabic coffee is a wholesome addition to a diet, it's the accompaniments that can impact your nutritional goals. In Arab cultures, it's commonly served with dates and other sweets, which significantly increase calorie intake. To keep your coffee a healthy choice, consider these tips:

Enjoy it black: This ensures the brew remains calorie-free, allowing you to reap the benefits of its antioxidants without added sugar or fat.
Mind your accompaniments: If you enjoy having something with your coffee, opt for a small portion of fruit or a handful of nuts instead of calorie-dense sweets.
Moderation is key: Like any caffeinated beverage, excessive consumption can lead to side effects. Sticking to a moderate number of small cups per day is recommended.
Consider digestion: For those with sensitive stomachs, the lower acidity of Arabica beans is a plus. Using a brewing method with a paper filter can also help remove irritating compounds, making it even gentler on the digestive system.

Conclusion

So, is Arabic coffee too strong? From a caffeine and flavor standpoint, the answer is a resounding no when brewed traditionally. It is a mild, aromatic, and nutritionally beneficial beverage that holds a significant place in Middle Eastern culture. When consumed in moderation and without high-calorie additives, it is a healthy part of a balanced nutrition diet, offering a wealth of antioxidants and flavor from its signature spices. The key is to appreciate the nuance of its preparation and its surprisingly gentle nature, distinguishing it from the robust, high-caffeine brews common elsewhere.

For more research on the health impacts of Arabic coffee, you can review studies on its effect on blood pressure and lipid profiles, such as those published by the National Institutes of Health. Source: National Institutes of Health

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Arabic coffee typically has less caffeine than regular drip coffee, instant coffee, or espresso. It is made from Arabica beans, which naturally have lower caffeine content, and is brewed in a way that results in a mild, low-caffeine drink.

Arabic coffee is generally gentle on the stomach. Arabica beans are less acidic than Robusta beans, and the traditional light roast further reduces acidity. For extra sensitive individuals, filtering the coffee can remove oils that cause irritation.

When consumed black and in moderation, Arabic coffee is calorie-free. Its caffeine and chlorogenic acid content can help boost metabolism and suppress appetite, which may aid weight loss efforts. However, pairing it with high-calorie snacks like dates can counteract these benefits.

The caffeine content can vary based on brewing method and bean type, but studies show a small 30-60ml serving can contain as little as 4.1mg to up to 40mg of caffeine.

Yes, adding spices like cardamom is a healthy practice. Cardamom, for instance, contains anti-inflammatory properties and has been shown to help lower blood pressure.

Moderate consumption of Arabic coffee, particularly when brewed from Arabica beans, has been linked to improved heart health by reducing inflammation and LDL cholesterol. However, those with stage one hypertension should monitor their intake and consult a doctor, as excessive caffeine can affect blood pressure.

In its traditional form, Arabic coffee is low in caffeine and high in antioxidants, with added benefits from spices like cardamom. It's much milder and less caffeinated than espresso or Turkish coffee. Its nutritional value is dependent on keeping it black and minimizing high-calorie additions.