Many people rely on their morning cup of coffee to start the day, but recent research suggests that your coffee habits could impact your weight loss goals. A new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition sheds light on how different additives to coffee—sugar, cream, or nondairy coffee whiteners—affect weight gain.
Key Findings of the Study
The study aimed to explore the relationship between coffee consumption, caffeine intake, and weight changes when sugar, cream, or nondairy coffee whiteners are added to coffee. Here’s what the researchers discovered:
Unsweetened Coffee: Drinking more cups of unsweetened coffee per day was linked to a reduction in weight gain. This suggests that coffee, when consumed without additives, might have a beneficial effect on weight management.
Sugar: Adding sugar to coffee was associated with weight gain, irrespective of the amount of coffee or caffeine consumed. The study highlighted that a single teaspoon of sugar could negate the potential weight management benefits of coffee. This effect was particularly pronounced in younger individuals and those with a higher baseline Body Mass Index (BMI).
Cream and Nondairy Coffee Whiteners: The addition of cream or nondairy coffee whiteners did not show a significant link to increased weight gain. This indicates that these additives may not impact weight as severely as sugar does.
Implications for Coffee Drinkers
The study’s findings underscore the importance of how you prepare your coffee if you are mindful of weight management. Here are a few takeaways:
Opt for Unsweetened Coffee: To maximize the potential weight management benefits of coffee, consuming it without sugar or high-calorie creamers is advisable.
Be Cautious with Sugar: Even small amounts of sugar in your coffee can contribute to weight gain. For those aiming to manage their weight, it’s best to limit or avoid sugar altogether.
Cream and Whiteners: While cream and nondairy whiteners are less likely to impact weight gain directly, they still add calories. Choosing lower-calorie options or moderating their use can help maintain a balanced diet.
Conclusion
If consumed in its plain, unsweetened form, coffee may contribute positively to weight management. However, adding sugar to your coffee could counteract these benefits and lead to weight gain. For those who prefer their coffee with additives, choosing lower-calorie options or limiting their use can be beneficial for maintaining weight loss goals.
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