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By Heide Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Intern

If you ask me, there is nothing like a good, strong cup of coffee. It tastes great, perks you right up, and is definitely a mood booster. Most people drink coffee for its caffeine content, but in some instances, you might not want all that caffeine. That’s where decaf coffee comes in. You still get to enjoy the taste and smell of coffee but without the effects of the caffeine.

According to registered dietician Christa Brown, decaf coffee is made by removing the caffeine from the beans with either a solvent, water, or carbon dioxide-based method, and then the beans are roasted at the appropriate temperature to evaporate the liquid used.

Regardless of whether you choose regular or decaf coffee, both are chock full of antioxidants which help to reduce the risk of developing cancer or other diseases by reducing inflammation in the body. In addition to antioxidants, coffee is also a great source of potassium, magnesium, and niacin.

Besides the fact that decaf coffee is at least 97% free of caffeine, there really is no difference between decaf coffee and regular coffee. Nutritionally, they both offer the same kinds and amounts of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The choice is ultimately up to you and your caffeine content preferences!

Want to read more about coffee? Check out this collection of coffee articles from Fill Your Plate!