For many of us, coffee is a morning ritual. We wake up, stumble bleary-eyed to the kitchen, start the brewing process, and wait for that first delicious sip of caffeine to hit our system. But not all of us can stomach a strong dose of caffeine in the morning. For that reason, it’s always a good idea to have alternatives available. Here, we’ll discuss the differences between decaf and regular coffee so that you can choose what’s best for you.

Regular Coffee

All standard coffee beans have a natural supply of caffeine that transfers into the drink as you brew it in your kitchen. So, when we refer to regular coffee, we’re talking about using beans that still have their natural caffeine concentration. As a result, regular coffee contains more caffeine than decaf coffee (usually around 95 to 200 mg per cup).

The Pros

Regular coffee has a stronger flavor than decaf, so if you’re looking for a more robust cup of joe, this is the way to go. Additionally, regular coffee contains more antioxidants than decaf, which can be beneficial for your health.

The Cons

Because it contains more caffeine, regular coffee can make some people feel jittery or anxious. It can also cause indigestion or heartburn. If you have trouble sleeping, you may want to avoid drinking regular coffee in the evening because caffeine can interfere with your sleep cycle.

Decaf Coffee

Decaf coffee, on the other hand, has had much of its caffeine removed. The caffeine-removal process can vary, but it typically involves soaking the beans in water or steam before roasting them. This removes some of the caffeine but not all of it. Therefore, decaf coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine (usually around 2 to 12 mg per cup).

The Pros

Overconsuming caffeine can have some negative effects on the body, such as midday crashes and an overall increase in fatigue. That’s why decaf is a great alternative for taking control of your consumption. It’s also less acidic than regular coffee, which is beneficial for people who have sensitive stomachs.

The Cons

Because the caffeine-removal process is not 100 percent effective, decaf coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine. Additionally, some people find that decaf coffee has a slightly different taste than regular coffee.

How To Choose the Right Coffee for You

Now that you know the differences between decaf and regular coffee, it’s time to decide which one is right for you. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what’s best for your body. If you’re trying to limit your caffeine intake or have a sensitive stomach, decaf coffee is the way to go. However, if you don’t mind the extra caffeine and need an extra pick-me-up in the mornings, regular coffee may be more suitable.

At 11th Street Coffee, we know that every individual has their own unique preferences for their coffee, even down to the amount of caffeine. That’s why we make sure to keep a diverse selection of decaf Keurig pods in stock. We have a wide range of popular flavors from premium coffee brands. This way, you know you’re getting something you love exactly how you want it.