Intermittent fasting is a popular form of dieting which allows you to consume food within a certain period of time and then fast or not eat for the rest of the day. There has been a lot of debate and discussion around the question “can I drink coffee with milk during intermittent fasting?” In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of drinking coffee with milk while fasting.
Let’s start by taking a look at why people choose to do intermittent fasting in the first place. The primary benefit of intermittent fasting is that it gives you an opportunity to break away from your normal eating habit which is usually consuming 3 meals a day. Intermittent fasting can help you reduce your calorie intake since you’re only consuming food within a certain window of time. Some also believe that intermittent fasting can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Now, coming back to the question of whether you can drink coffee with milk during intermittent fasting, the answer depends on a number of factors. If you’re considering adding milk to your coffee during fasting, it’s important to understand that there are both pros and cons to this. On the plus side, adding milk to your coffee can make it more enjoyable, while also providing some essential minerals, depending on the type of milk you use. On the other hand, adding milk to your coffee may increase the number of calories, which could limit the effectiveness of intermittent fasting.
It’s important to remember that different types of milk contain different levels of calories and fats. For example, cow’s milk has approximately 90 calories, while almond milk has just 30 calories. So, if you’re conscious of your calorie intake, it’s important to choose the type of milk which helps you stay on track with your fasting goals.
Any type of natural source of fat, including milk, can slow down digestion and break the fast, so it’s important to pay attention to how much you’re consuming, especially if you’re looking for the fasting benefits. Nutrition experts also suggest that if you’re going to add milk to your coffee, choose natural, unsweetened varieties to reduce the calorie intake from your coffee.
Skim Milk
One of the most popular types of milk for those looking for a low-calorie alternative is skimmed milk. Skimmed milk is essentially fat-free and contains very few calories. However, it is important to remember that skimmed milk still contains some carbohydrates, even in small quantities. This means that it may still affect the process of fasting, so it’s important to watch your intake carefully.
Furthermore, skimmed milk can be used as a substitute for traditional full-fat milk, and it has the added benefit of providing protein and calcium. Skimmed milk can also help to make coffee taste better and it can add a creamy texture to the drink.
Despite its benefits, it’s important to note that skimmed milk can be more difficult for the body to digest. This means that it may affect your fasting process, although the effects may be lesser compared to other types of milk.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is an often overlooked option when it comes to adding milk to coffee while fasting. Coconut milk is extremely low in calories, containing just 17 calories per serving, and it is also rich in healthy fats. Unlike other types of milk, coconut milk does not contain any carbohydrates, and this makes it a great low-calorie option for those looking to add some texture and flavor to their coffee.
Coconut milk is also beneficial for getting a dose of essential minerals such as zinc, potassium, and magnesium. Furthermore, coconut milk also provides some amount of healthy fat which can help to slow down the digestive process, allowing you to benefit from the fasting process.
Despite its benefits, it’s important to remember that coconut milk is not suitable for those who are allergic to dairy. In addition, coconut milk can be more expensive compared to other types of milk and it can also give your coffee a slightly nutty flavor.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is another great option for adding to coffee while intermittent fasting. Almond milk is low in calories, with a single cup containing just 30 calories, and it is also packed with vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and vitamin E. Almond milk also contains a healthy amount of monounsaturated fat, which can help to slow down the digestion process.
Furthermore, almond milk is a great way to add flavor to your coffee without compromising on nutrition. It has a subtle nutty flavor which can enhance the overall taste of the drink, and it can also be used as an alternative to traditional cow’s milk.
Despite its benefits, it’s important to note that almond milk does not contain as much protein as other types of milk and it is also not suitable for those with allergies to nuts. Furthermore, almond milk may also have a slightly watery texture which can change the overall consistency of the drink.
Conclusion
To sum it up, it is possible to add milk to your coffee while intermittent fasting, but it’s important to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks of doing so. Different types of milk have different nutrient profiles and different levels of fat, so it’s important to choose the type which fits with your fasting goals and goals. Skimmed milk has fewer calories and can help to add texture and flavor to coffee, while almond milk and coconut milk can provide essential vitamins and minerals and can help to slow the digestion process.
