Like most endurance athletes, it's no surprise that we appreciate a good cup of coffee. We even go as far as using freshly roasted espresso beans in one of our original Enduro Bites flavors - Dark Chocolate Espresso. As such, we are always interested in new information on this magical bean.

Much of the current research on coffee centers on Cafestol and Kahweol. These  compounds, known as natural diterpenes, have traditionally gotten a lot of attention from scientists due to their effects on raising blood lipid levels, including LDL (bad cholesterol), which most of us want to avoid.

More recently, however, they have also linked to some very desirable effects such as being anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic (limits blood flow to tumors) and anti-tumorigenic (fights the growth of tumors). We'd gladly sign up for all of these.

What does all this mean to you? Like many foods, coffee contains compounds that can have both positive and negative effects. All indications are that moderate consumption limits the negative effects in most healthy people, but the science is still unfolding.

The good news for those who choose to err on the side of caution is that Cafestol and Kahweol are largely avoided if you drink filtered coffee. Traditional drip coffee, as well as coffee made via various pour-over techniques or an AeroPress, are all considered to be "filtered." Turkish coffee, espresso, and that made with a French Press are examples of unfiltered coffee.

Does this mean that we are swearing off the occasional espresso? No way! It's all about moderation. Unless you struggle with high cholesterol or have some other condition affected by these compounds, there's nothing to indicate that moderate consumption should be avoided.

Knowledge is power, so chose wisely and enjoy whichever coffee you have in your cup!