Is filtered coffee better for your health?

January 5, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a 2020 study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, drinking filtered coffee was associated with a 15% lower risk of death from any cause. The core reason behind this surprising finding revolves around a group of natural oils, and understanding their impact is key to knowing if is filtered coffee better for your health.

Quick Summary

An analysis of brewing methods reveals that filtered coffee is healthier than unfiltered varieties. This is due to paper filters removing cholesterol-raising compounds called diterpenes, while allowing beneficial antioxidants to pass through. The brewing method significantly influences the health impacts of your daily cup.

Key Points

Filter removes harmful oils: Filtered coffee is healthier because paper filters trap cholesterol-raising diterpenes, like cafestol and kahweol, that are present in unfiltered brews.
Lowers cholesterol levels: The removal of diterpenes in filtered coffee helps prevent the elevation of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
Rich in antioxidants: Both filtered and unfiltered coffee contain high levels of beneficial antioxidants, but filtered coffee delivers these without the cholesterol-raising oils.
Improves heart health: Studies have shown that drinking filtered coffee is linked to a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to drinking no coffee at all or unfiltered coffee.
Best for moderate consumption: For the greatest health benefits, moderation is key; experts suggest 1-4 cups of filtered coffee per day for the lowest mortality rates.
Easier on the stomach: The removal of oils and micro-grounds makes filtered coffee less likely to cause stomach irritation or discomfort for many individuals.

The Health Debate: Filtered vs. Unfiltered Coffee

For years, coffee's role in a healthy diet has been a subject of debate, with its potential benefits often weighed against its drawbacks. However, mounting scientific evidence, including a landmark study from the University of Gothenburg, suggests that the way you brew your coffee matters significantly. The primary distinction lies in the use of a filter, which affects the presence of certain compounds in your final cup.

The Diterpene Difference: Why Filters Are Key

At the heart of the health argument for filtered coffee are natural compounds known as diterpenes, primarily cafestol and kahweol. These oily substances are naturally present in coffee beans but have been shown to raise LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. Unfiltered brewing methods, where coffee grounds have prolonged contact with hot water and no paper barrier is used, allow these diterpenes to pass into the final beverage. Paper filters, on the other hand, effectively trap these oily compounds, resulting in a cleaner, more heart-friendly cup.

Weighing the Benefits: What Filtered Coffee Retains

Beyond what it removes, filtered coffee is celebrated for what it retains. This brewing method still delivers the antioxidants and other bioactive compounds for which coffee is known. These powerful antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid, help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to a range of potential health benefits.

Benefits of Drinking Filtered Coffee

Reduced Cholesterol: By removing cafestol and kahweol, filtered coffee helps mitigate the risk of elevated LDL cholesterol, which is a major factor in cardiovascular health.
Enhanced Heart Health: Studies have linked the consumption of filtered coffee to lower rates of death from heart disease and other cardiovascular events, especially when compared to unfiltered preparations.
Rich in Antioxidants: The filtration process does not strip the coffee of its beneficial antioxidants, which can help protect the body's cells from damage.
Easier on the Stomach: Some individuals experience stomach upset from the oils and fine particles present in unfiltered coffee. The filtering process removes these irritants, making for a smoother, more digestible beverage.
Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Research has also suggested that regular consumption of filtered coffee may be associated with a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Brewing Method Comparison: Filtered vs. Unfiltered

The following table highlights the key differences between filtered and unfiltered coffee brewing methods and their health implications.


Feature	Filtered Coffee (e.g., Drip, Pour-Over)	Unfiltered Coffee (e.g., French Press, Turkish)
Diterpene Content	Significantly lower (mostly trapped by paper filter)	Significantly higher (oils remain in brew)
Impact on Cholesterol	Minimal to none; may reduce LDL over time	May increase LDL and total cholesterol
Heart Health	Associated with lower risk of heart disease	Potentially higher risk, especially for those with high cholesterol
Antioxidant Levels	High levels retained	High levels retained
Flavor Profile	Cleaner, brighter, and less oily taste	Fuller-bodied, richer, and more robust flavor
Impact on Digestion	Generally easier on sensitive stomachs	Can cause stomach irritation for some

The Importance of Moderation and Add-ins

Regardless of your brewing preference, how you consume your coffee plays a vital role. Harvard Health Publishing and others emphasize moderation, recommending around three to four cups of black, filtered coffee daily for maximum health benefits. Adding excessive sugar, cream, or flavored syrups can add unnecessary calories and sugar, counteracting the protective effects of coffee's antioxidants. For a healthier take, consider a splash of low-fat milk or a natural sweetener like cinnamon.

Conclusion: A Clear Choice for Health-Conscious Drinkers

So, is filtered coffee better for your health? For most people, the scientific evidence points to a clear "yes," particularly regarding heart health and cholesterol. The simple act of using a paper filter effectively removes the harmful diterpenes found in unfiltered brews while preserving coffee's beneficial antioxidants. This makes methods like drip machines and pour-overs the superior choice for those looking to maximize coffee's positive health impacts. While the rich, full-bodied taste of a French press is tempting, a filtered cup offers a cleaner path to a healthier daily ritual. For those with high cholesterol, making the switch is especially prudent. Ultimately, brewing smarter allows you to enjoy your coffee with a clearer conscience and tangible health benefits.

Practical Tips for Healthier Coffee

Choose the right filter: Use a paper filter, which is most effective at trapping diterpenes and micro-grounds.
Moderate your intake: Aim for 1-4 cups daily to reap maximum benefits without negative side effects like jitters or disrupted sleep.
Watch the additions: Avoid excessive sugar and heavy cream; opt for black coffee or a modest splash of low-fat milk.
Grind fresh: Grinding beans just before brewing preserves the most antioxidants and flavor.
Stay hydrated: Balance your coffee intake with plenty of water throughout the day.

For more detailed information, consult research from reputable sources like the European Society of Cardiology, which has published on coffee and heart health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Filtered coffee is considered healthier for heart health because the paper filter removes diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol), oily compounds that can raise LDL cholesterol levels, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

The main health difference is the presence of diterpenes. Unfiltered coffee methods (like French press) allow these cholesterol-raising oils to remain in the drink, while filtered methods (like drip) trap them in the paper filter.

Paper filters are most effective at trapping the diterpenes. Metal or cloth filters allow more of these oily compounds to pass through into your cup, though still less than methods with no filter at all.

A large-scale study found that consuming between one and four cups of filtered coffee per day was associated with the lowest mortality rate. Moderation is key to maximizing benefits.

Yes, the filtration process preserves the beneficial antioxidant compounds, like chlorogenic acid, while removing the problematic oils. This allows you to enjoy the protective effects of coffee without the negative impact on cholesterol.

Unfiltered coffee is produced by brewing methods that do not use a paper filter, such as French press, Turkish coffee, and Scandinavian boiled coffee. These methods result in a brew with higher levels of diterpenes.

For most people, especially those concerned with heart health or cholesterol levels, filtered coffee is the healthier choice. However, the health impact is influenced by overall lifestyle, and moderation is essential regardless of brewing method.