French press coffee is made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in hot water and then pressing a mesh strainer down to release the coffee. Because this is an unfiltered method, the natural oils found on coffee beans, called diterpenes, are transferred into the coffee. While this can enhance the flavor, high-amounts (five to eight cups) of unfiltered coffee have been shown to raise LDL, “bad,” cholesterol levels. If you choose to consume French press coffee, stick to four cups or less a day. If you have or are predisposed to high cholesterol, choose a filtered coffee option like drip coffee instead.