How do paper filters specifically impact the intake of cafestol and kahweol?
They effectively trap the majority of these diterpenes.
The primary health advantage associated with using standard filter coffee methods, especially those utilizing paper filters, is their remarkable efficacy in removing diterpenes. Paper filters act as a highly selective barrier in the brewing process. As the hot water passes through the coffee grounds held within the paper medium, the physical structure of the paper physically adsorbs or traps the majority of the cafestol and kahweol oils before the liquid coffee reaches the cup. This physical exclusion mechanism drastically lowers the concentration of these lipid compounds in the final brew, which is why this method is suggested as one of the healthiest preparation styles when minimizing intake of cholesterol-raising substances is the priority. This contrasts sharply with metal mesh filters, which allow these oils to pass through.
