As a true coffee addict, I find myself correcting people on the various misconceptions about coffee. Below are just a few myths and truths that I think all coffee drinkers should know and understand.

The Myth: Dark roasted coffee has more caffeine than light roasted coffee.

The Truth: Dark roasted coffee actually has less caffeine than light roasted coffee. As the beans are roasted, they are heated and change in size, color, and lose some of their caffeine in the process. Therefore, the longer the beans are roasted, the darker the beans are, and the less caffeine they have. If you are looking for a good caffeine buzz, stick with light to medium roasted coffee.

The Myth: Keeping coffee beans or grounds in the refrigerator will keep them fresher, longer.

The Truth: Ground coffee should be brewed right away. If you buy pre-ground coffee, then it already isn’t fresh. Whole beans only stay fresh for about 3 weeks after they have been roasted. If you want to stretch out that 3 week life span, you can put them in the freezer not the refrigerator. Putting coffee beans in the refrigerator is a bad idea, because coffee beans are very sensitive and can absorb the smells and flavors of food - which is less likely to happen in the freezer. The cold temperature in the freezer will slow down the aging process, but not by much. The best way to keep your coffee beans fresh is to store them in an airtight container. I use this storage container from Crate & Barrel.

The Myth: Coffee is bad for you.

The Truth: Studies show that coffee by itself (without sugar, milk, syrups, whipped cream, etc.) is actually good for you. Coffee is a great source for antioxidants. It can help decrease your chances of developing Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease, heart rhythm problems, and strokes. It can also improve your memory and boost your alertness. The best part? One cup of plain coffee contains less than 10 calories!

Now that you know the truth, drink up, embrace that “bad” habit, and spread the word! If you want to read more coffee facts, check out my blog - Fresh Coffee: Fresh Roasted.