There are an increasing number of diet methods available, ranging from natural to relatively quick. One particularly effective natural method is the consumption of coffee beans.
Eating coffee beans for weight loss has gained significant attention due to their various health benefits. One key benefit is boosting metabolism, which makes fat burning in the body more effective.
However, can you eat raw coffee beans, and are there any side effects? Let’s explore whether raw coffee beans are edible, the benefits they offer, and the proper ways to consume them!
Table of Contents
What Does Raw Coffee Beans Taste Like?
What do unroasted coffee beans taste like? Raw coffee usually tastes more bitter, has a grassy aftertaste, and has a hard texture when bitten into. This is because raw coffee beans have not undergone the roasting process, which is why they lack the sweetness and complexity of regular coffee.
Raw coffee beans also tend to be denser, so some people will find it difficult to chew. If you’re curious, raw coffee beans taste similar to raw beans but are more bitter and fibrous.
Also read: What Are Green Coffee Beans? Here’s 3 Ways to Consume It!
Can You Eat Raw Coffee Beans?
Is it safe to eat raw coffee beans? Yes, raw coffee beans are generally safe for human consumption if eaten in moderation.
Why is that? They contain many compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, which, if consumed in excess, can cause indigestion.
Do You Get The Same Caffeine Content from Eating Coffee Beans?
Does eating raw coffee beans give you energy? Yes, eating raw coffee beans can provide a quicker intake of caffeine and energy compared to drinking brewed coffee. This is because the caffeine can be absorbed through the lining of the mouth when you chew them.
However, this caffeine content will also vary depending on the type of coffee beans you consume. For example, Robusta coffee contains twice the caffeine of Arabica coffee. Be mindful of the amount you drink so you don’t exceed your daily caffeine intake!
Also read: Do Coffee Beans Expire? Here’s What You Need To Know!
Benefits of Eating Raw Coffee Beans
Although the taste and texture are less good than drinking processed coffee, raw coffee beans provide several surprising health benefits. Let’s take a look at five of them.
1. Source of Antioxidants
Because they haven’t undergone the roasting process, raw coffee beans are still rich in antioxidants. Their primary function is to fight free radicals and prevent the destruction of cell nuclei in our body.
Overall, our immune system is better protected. Additionally, it helps slow down the aging process of cells, making us look younger.
2. Boosts Metabolism
As mentioned, the caffeine and chlorogenic acid in raw coffee beans effectively boost metabolism. With a good metabolism, your body can burn fat and calories more efficiently, giving you extra energy for daily activities!
3. Reduces the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Many people may not be aware that consuming raw coffee beans, which are high in antioxidants, can also help stabilize blood sugar levels. Therefore, this type of coffee is very suitable for individuals with a history of diabetes.
4. Weight Loss
Raw coffee beans are often processed into weight loss supplements thanks to their ability to boost metabolism. If consumed regularly, this product can help reduce the fat that accumulates in the body.
5. Improves Focus and Energy
Caffeine in raw coffee beans can give you extra energy quickly – great for improving focus and concentration when working on complex tasks.
Also read: 8 Advantages of Green Coffee Beans That You Need to Know!
Side Effects of Eating Coffee Beans
After knowing the answers to whether you can eat raw coffee beans, you might wonder if they cause specific side effects. Raw coffee beans can undoubtedly cause side effects if consumed excessively. Here are some of them!
1. Digestive Disorders
High levels of chlorogenic acid can potentially cause various digestive disorders, such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain. This can be very disruptive to your daily comfort and activities.
2. Insomnia and Anxiety
Although the amount is small, the caffeine in raw coffee beans also has the potential to disrupt sleep patterns and make you feel anxious. For this reason, you should not consume it in the afternoon or evening before bedtime.
3. Rapid Heartbeat
Consuming large amounts of caffeine also affects our heart rate, potentially causing palpitations or arrhythmia. The percentage of this risk will undoubtedly increase if you have a history of heart problems.
4. Potential Dehydration
Ever heard of the fact that caffeine is a diuretic? This means that it can increase the frequency of urination. If you don’t drink enough water, you could quickly become dehydrated.
5. Drug Interactions
Lastly, the caffeine in raw coffee beans can also interact with certain medications, especially antidepressants or blood pressure medications. Consult your doctor first if you want to consume it regularly!
How Many Raw Coffee Beans Can You Eat?
Generally, 10-15 raw coffee beans contain the same compounds as a regular cup of coffee. For the beginners, start with a small amount to test your body’s reaction.
The amount of coffee beans also depends on each person’s caffeine tolerance. Consuming too much will result in restlessness and insomnia.
Five Ways to Eat Raw Coffee Beans
While raw coffee beans can be eaten straight out of the box, several consumption methods make it more enjoyable. Let’s take a look at some of them!
1. Raw Coffee Beans
The first and most original way is to enjoy these coffee beans directly. However, keep in mind that the flavor is very bitter. Mix it with some honey, cocoa, or other natural sweeteners to neutralize it.
2. Roasted Coffee Beans
Roast these beans for a short period for a more complex flavor. Serve as a snack or mix with other food ingredients.
Also read: Be the Master! 4 Coffee Roasting Levels Chart with Image & Guide
3. Choco Chip Coffee Cookies
Make unique chocolate chip cookies with coffee beans sprinkled inside. Some people love the combination of coffee and chocolate because they taste delicious and complement each other!
4. Steak With Coffee and Chilli Rub
This might be the most unique way, but there’s nothing wrong with using raw coffee beans as a seasoning mix for your steak. Combining coffee with chili creates a more intense and complex flavor.
5. Slow-Baked Coffee Carrots
The last way to enjoy raw coffee beans is to sprinkle them in powder form over carrots that are about to be roasted. The result? You can serve it as a side dish that tastes heavenly!
Enjoy the wonders of raw coffee beans!
Now that you know the answer to whether you can eat raw coffee beans, you understand that this type of coffee offers many health benefits.
From boosting your metabolism to providing extra energy, there are many more good reasons to include this food in your diet. However, remember to include it in the right way and use the right amount as experts recommend.
Interested in trying high-quality raw coffee beans? Let’s visit the FnB Coffee website. As the leading exporter of coffee from Sumatra, we offer a diverse range of fascinating coffee varieties from Indonesia, all of which are fresh and of the highest quality.
Let’s make raw coffee beans a part of your healthy lifestyle now. Find a variety of Indonesian raw coffee beans with appetizing flavors and aromas at FnB Coffee!
