Greek coffee is a strongly brewed coffee served with foam on top and grounds at the bottom of the cup. It is tremendously popular all over Greece, especially in the countryside, where you will most likely find the locals enjoying a sip or two at a local kafeneio.
Greek coffee is much more than just coffee; it is an integral part of the country’s culture. Greeks’ first acquaintance with coffee happened when the country was under Ottoman rule, and the first coffee shop opened around 1475. Since then, the Greeks’ bond with their coffee has been unbreakable!
Luckily for Greeks, it has been proven that Greek coffeehas major health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them, and we are sure that after reading this article, you will find yourselves holding a briki, getting ready to make a cup of ellinikos!
1. Greek Coffee Is High In Antioxidants
Like most coffees, Greek coffee is a potent source of healthy antioxidants. In fact, a double Greek contains about 90-130 mg of antioxidants. Among others, antioxidants prevent premature aging of the cells.
2. Greek Coffee Reduces The Risk Of Certain Diseases
According to a 2011 study, 1-2 cups of Greek coffee a day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, Greek coffee is rich in polyphenols, chlorogenic, and caffeic acid, meaning it can help prevent various types of cancer, including esophageal and liver cancer. Last but not least, it is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
3. Greek Coffee Promotes Mental Well-Being
Drinking coffee, in general, can act as a shield against certain neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Studies have also shown that coffee intake can reduce the risk of stroke, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. Based on research conducted on the inhabitants of Ikaria, drinking a cup of Greek coffee, in particular, contributes to fewer neurological dysfunctions and promotes longevity.
4. Greek Coffee Increases Metabolism
Drinking a cup of Greek coffee after a meal can activate your metabolism and improve your digestion. The caffeine it contains increases the intestine's motility, causing food to move through the gastrointestinal tract more quickly, hastening the digestion process.
5. Greek Coffee Contributes To Weight Loss
Greek coffee is traditionally enjoyed black, without the addition of sugar or milk, due to its rich flavor and texture. A cup of black Greek coffee has almost zero calories, making it perfectly suitable for those on diet. Also, its ingredients are poor in carbohydrates and fats.
FAQs
The main difference between Greek coffee and regular coffee is the way it is prepared. Greek coffee is not brewed like others; instead, it is boiled. Because it is boiled rather than brewed, allowing for more nutrients, antioxidants, and health-boosting compounds to be extracted from the coffee bean.
Why is Greek coffee considered healthiest in the world? ›
The main difference between Greek coffee and regular coffee is the way it is prepared. Greek coffee is not brewed like others; instead, it is boiled. Because it is boiled rather than brewed, allowing for more nutrients, antioxidants, and health-boosting compounds to be extracted from the coffee bean.
Is Greek coffee good for blood pressure? ›
The benefits of Greek coffee for our health
Chlorogenic acid also improves inflammation, blood sugar, cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
Is Greek coffee good for diabetics? ›
Reduces Diabetes Risk
Greek coffee reduces the risk of diabetes, especially type II diabetes, because it increases the levels of a hormone in the blood known as SHGB. This hormone is responsible for keeping testosterone and oestrogen levels at normal rates.
Does Greek coffee raise cholesterol? ›
Research predict that chronic consumption of 5 or more cups of French press coffee or Turkish/Greek coffee per day could increase serum cholesterol. For espresso and mocha coffee, consumption of 15 or more cups per day is required for the same effect.
What are the health benefits of Greek coffee? ›
Like most coffees, Greek coffee is a potent source of healthy antioxidants. In fact, a double Greek contains about 90-130 mg of antioxidants. Among others, antioxidants prevent premature aging of the cells. According to a 2011 study, 1-2 cups of Greek coffee a day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
What is the healthiest coffee in the world? ›
The verdict: In terms of antioxidant content, blonde roasts are healthiest. Blonde Robusta coffee has the most antioxidants, followed closely by blonde and then medium-roast Arabica coffee.
What kind of coffee is good for high blood pressure? ›
Opt for Decaf Coffee
Although the effects of caffeine on blood pressure are still under debate, even in the scientific world, caffeinated coffee may be detrimental to your hypertension. Instead of drinking a morning cup of joe (or several cups throughout the day), your heart may be happier with decaffeinated coffee.
Can I drink coffee everyday if I have high blood pressure? ›
People are generally advised to not drink too much coffee because caffeine can raise blood pressure. However, coffee also contains certain compounds which can lower blood pressure. This study provides evidence that moderate coffee consumption could be safe for those with hypertension.
How much sugar is in Greek coffee? ›
Add 2 teaspoons of coffee and 2 teaspoons of sugar for every 1 coffee cup and stir. This ratio is considered a somewhat strong coffee. Place the briki on the gas and turn on so that it is on low heat. Very slowly let the coffee heat up, (keep the flame very-very low).
Some experts suggest that decaffeinated coffee is the safest option for people with diabetes because it provides the benefits of other coffee components without the potential risks of caffeine. It is also important to note that adding sugar or creamer to coffee increases blood sugar levels.
What three drinks should diabetics avoid? ›
Avoid: Sugary Beverages
It's best to steer clear of soda, fruit punch, sports drinks, energy drinks and sweetened teas. These drinks contain added sugar and empty calories, which can spike your blood sugar and contribute to weight gain, according to the ADA.
What is the golden drink that lowers cholesterol? ›
Golden milk, also known as turmeric milk, is a common Indian drink that has recently been gaining popularity in western cultures due to many health claims. It's beautiful bright yellow color is a result of adding turmeric, along with spices such as cinnamon and ginger, to milk.
Can I take statins with coffee? ›
Adenosine receptor activation is essential for mediating the IS-limiting effects of statins. Caffeine is a nonspecific adenosine receptor blocker, and thus drinking CC may block the myocardial protective effects of statins.
Are eggs bad for cholesterol? ›
Chicken eggs are an affordable source of protein and other nutrients. They're also naturally high in cholesterol. But the cholesterol in eggs doesn't seem to raise cholesterol levels the way some other foods, such as those high in trans fats and saturated fats, do.
Why is Greek cuisine the healthiest? ›
Greek cuisine is naturally high in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids thanks to the nations love of olive oil. Olive oil has been proven to protect against heart disease, the number one cause of death in the world.
Why is Greece one of the healthiest countries? ›
Reasons why Greek food is the healthiest cuisine
The Mediterranean diet is very rich in fresh, seasonally grown fruits and vegetables, lentils and beans and a rich range of fish and seafood. Meat is consumed regularly but not on a daily basis.
Why were the Greeks so healthy? ›
In ancient Greece, fruit and vegetables were a significant part of the diet, as the ancient Greeks consumed much less meat than in the typical diet of modern societies. Legumes would have been important crops, as their ability to replenish exhausted soil was known at least by the time of Xenophon.
What is the healthiest option for coffee? ›
Take It Black. The easiest way to make your coffee healthier? Take it without adding sugar or cream. Both of those are loaded with empty calories, while a plain cup of black coffee actually has close to zero.
