For many, coffee has become an essential part of daily life – and it’s no surprise when you consider the energy boost and focus it provides. But while some claim that coffee has numerous health benefits, opinions vary when it comes to the role that it can play in a diet. With questions such as ‘does drinking coffee without sugar help you lose weight?’ looming large, it’s a topic worth looking into.
Awareness of the weight-loss potential of drinking black coffee has increased in recent years, with certain experts attributing the beverage to improvements in metabolic activity. The Cleveland Clinic reports that coffee can boost calorie expenditure and stimulate fat burning; however, many believe that the health benefits of this caffeinated drink are exclusive to low-sugar, or even sugar-free, versions.
The FDA suggests that consuming no more than 25g of added sugar per day may help in acheiving optimal wellness – a guideline which, if followed, might place coffee in one’s diet as an acceptable treat. Research has demonstrated that a cup of black coffee can contain up to 0g of sugar, while specialty coffees such as lattes and frappuccinos may contain up to an astonishing 49g, depending on size and preparation. With all of these conflicting opinions, is it true that drinking coffee without sugar can help you lose weight?
Caffeine: Miracle Worker?
Caffeine, a naturally-occurring substance, is a key component of coffee – and many believe that it can be instrumental in achieving weight-loss. The nutrient has been known to increase metabolism, and subsequently the number of calories it is possible to burn each day. Caffeine can also cause decreases in stored fat.
However, studies have suggested that the weight-loss potential of regular caffeine consumption is limited. Harvard Medical School reveals that research has found that adult results conflict when it comes to caffeine’s impact on metabolism.
While the number of calories burned when ingesting caffeine has been reported to double, this is only for a short time frame. Therefore, it is important to consider the long-term implications of reliance on coffee. In short, it is not the caffeine in coffee that can help you lose weight, rather the sugar that is avoided when drinking the beverage sugar-free.
Cheat Sheet: Coffee With Sugar Vs Coffee Without Sugar
Comparing coffee with sugar and coffee without sugar, there are key benefits to taking the latter as part of a lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. Nursingeducators.com reports that drinking black coffee can help reduce cholesterol and can ensure that your body better utilizes the nutrients in food.
Equally, drinking coffee without sugar can improve cardiovascular health, lower the risk of kidney stones and diabetes. Similarly, those who ditch the sugar altogether might find that they have more energy, with fewer drops in alertness throughout the day.
Nevertheless, it’s essential to recognize that while pure black coffee can contain a measurable dose of vitamins, the laxative effects of caffeine mean that it should not be seen as a substitute for hydration. It is also important to consider the potential drawbacks of consuming caffeine – including insomnia and stomach ulcers.
Final Word
In summary, the weight-loss potential of drinking coffee without sugar is not as great as it may appear. While there are benefits, focusing on an overall lifestyle change is the most sure-fire way to achieve optimal health. Drink in moderation and make sure to educate yourself before developing a diet plan.
Conclusion
Does drinking coffee without sugar help you lose weight? It’s a subject that has divided opinion in recent years. Metabolism-boosting effects have been attributed to caffeine and avoiding sugar can help when it comes to achieving improved heart health. But ultimately, maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle is paramount if weight loss is the goal.
