Tag: N methylpyridinium

According to a 2020 study in the Journal of Environmental Science and Health, light roasted coffee boasts the highest polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. However, determining what is the healthiest coffee roast to drink is more nuanced, as both light and dark roasts offer unique health benefits depending on your specific needs.

A study presented to the American Chemical Society revealed that darker roasting produces a compound called N-methylpyridinium, which helps prevent excess stomach acid production, indicating dark roast coffee is not harder on your stomach, but often easier. This finding challenges the common assumption that darker roasts are harsher.

A 2011 study published in *Molecular Nutrition & Food Research* found that dark roast coffee was more effective than light roast at restoring key antioxidant levels in red blood cells. This research and others like it have fueled the debate around the question: is darker coffee better for you?