Could your coffee addiction be a reason why you’re gaining weight or struggling to lose weight? Coffee itself won’t make you fat, but your coffee preferences could be!
My definition of coffee is just plain black filtered coffee. Filtered coffee does not contain any calories; it’s when you start adding sugar, cream, and syrups that it becomes a hindrance in weight loss.
There are several arguments for why black coffee is actually good for you. It contains essential nutrients such as riboflavin, manganese, potassium, and niacin. It can help you burn fat by boosting your metabolic rate and it may even lower your risk of some diseases. For me, apart from just loving the taste of black coffee, I enjoy the extra energy boost coffee gives me.
So the answer is no. Coffee will not make you fat. But you know what will? Those fancy-ass venti mocha triple shot with whipped cream drinks from your favorite coffee shop. These handcrafted espresso drinks can have upwards of 500 calories in them. 500 calories of pure simple sugars—this is so frightening! For a lot of women this is likely 25+% of your total daily calories, all in a 16 ounce drink that is just your beverage that goes along with your breakfast. I don’t know about you, but I prefer to eat my calories, not drink them.
Dos and Don’ts for coffee drinkers:
Don’t use sugar.
Do use zero-calorie artificial sweeteners like stevia or splenda.
Don’t use creamers such as whole milk, half and half, or 2% milk.
Do use skim milk or almond milk.
Don’t add syrup flavors.
Do add sugar-free syrups.
Don’t order fancy espresso beverages.
Do opt for black coffee.
I used to drink my coffee with milk, but once I realized I was adding 70 useless calories to each cup consumed, I quickly transitioned to plain black coffee. It’s definitely an acquired taste, but just like any other habit, you adapt to it over time. I only drink black coffee now and I can honestly say it’s my preferred way to have my coffee. Of course I still love me a good pumpkin spice latte from time to time, who doesn’t?! There is nothing wrong with treating yourself. In fact I encourage it, but don’t make it a daily occurrence.
Remember, having a healthy lifestyle is about adapting to healthy habits. STOP DRINKING YOUR CALORIES! If you’re one to load your black coffee with sugar and creamer or habitually order calorie-dense espresso drinks, try to wean yourself off slowly. Start by putting one less teaspoon of sugar or creamer in your coffee. Baby steps will lead to great strides with time.
Have a happy and healthy week everyone!
Mandi.