Coffee, a globally cherished beverage, extends beyond its role as a morning ritual, captivating millions with its rich aroma and robust flavor. In the realm of weight loss, the delicate balance tips when additives such as sugar-laden syrups, flavored creams, and excessive sweeteners infiltrate your coffee cup, transforming a potentially calorie-friendly drink into a high-calorie indulgence.
We spoke with Joanna Wen, certified health coach and founder of Spices & Greens, to learn about the two coffee ingredients you should minimize because they can make weight loss much harder. Wen revealed that sadly, flavored syrups and flavored creamers are the ones to avoid.
Flavored Syrups
Flavored syrups, though enticing to the palate, can inadvertently sabotage weight loss aspirations when added to coffee. These sweet additives not only contribute to an increased overall calorie intake but can also trigger cravings for more sugary foods throughout the day.
Wen says, "Flavored syrups that are often used to add sweetness and flavor to coffee can be a surprising source of hidden calories and sugar. While they may enhance the taste of your coffee, many flavored syrups are loaded with added sugars, which can contribute to weight gain and hinder weight loss efforts. These syrups often contain high fructose corn syrup or other sweeteners, leading to an increase in calorie intake without providing any nutritional benefits."
This doesn't mean your coffee has to be flavorless, as Wen says, "As a healthier alternative, consider using natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, which can add sweetness to your coffee without the added calories and potential negative health effects of flavored syrups and artificial sweeteners."
Flavored Creamers
Creamy coffee additions often contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and trans fats, contributing to an increase in calorie content. As weight loss relies on maintaining a calorie deficit, the consumption of flavored creamers can inadvertently tip the scales in the opposite direction. The added sugars may spike insulin levels, promoting fat storage, while the trans fats can be detrimental to heart health.
"Flavored creamers are another common addition to coffee that can negatively impact weight loss efforts. While they may offer a convenient way to add flavor and creaminess to your drink, many flavored creamers are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. These products often contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and hydrogenated oils, which can have negative effects on overall health when consumed regularly," says Wen.
She suggests we replace them with more healthier additions such as unsweetened almond milk or oat milk and adding spices for enhanced flavor.
"Opting for a healthier alternative such as unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can provide the creaminess you desire without the excessive calories and unhealthy additives found in flavored creamers. Additionally, you can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of your coffee without the need for excess sugar or cream," she recommends.
