The ketogenic diet is gaining in popularity with its touted benefits to help people lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Drinking coffee on the keto diet can be beneficial, although it must be noted that certain types of coffee should be consumed instead of others. With more and more coffee brands making their way into the market, you may be asking yourself if it’s safe to drink instant coffee while following a keto diet.
The first thing to understand is that coffee is a low-carb, low-calorie beverage, allowing people to enjoy coffee while still adhering to the keto diet guidelines. For those questioning its health benefits, studies have shown that coffee can have numerous benefits, including improved cognitive performance, decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease, increased metabolic rate, and more.
However, when it comes to drinking instant coffee while following a keto diet, it is important to be aware of the ingredients. Instant coffee typically contains added flavors, sugar, and creamers which can increase the carbohydrate content and negate the benefits of following a ketogenic diet. Those on the keto diet should be mindful of their carb and calorie intake, and as such, drinking regular instant coffee could be a hindrance.
Another concern is that instant coffee may not have the same variety of antioxidants which can be found in freshly brewed coffee. These antioxidants play an important role in maintaining good health and can actually help to speed up weight loss while on the keto diet. As a result, if you’re looking to reap the health benefits associated with the keto diet, it may be best to avoid instant coffee.
However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy coffee while on the keto diet. One option is to opt for decaffeinated coffee, as this can be beneficial for those trying to lose weight. Decaffeinated coffee can help to reduce hunger cravings and keep you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, it offers an excellent source of antioxidants and can be prepared without sugar or creamers, making it a great option for those following a low-carb, low-calorie diet.
Another option is to opt for specialty coffee, such as single origin, organic, or even cold brew. These coffees are typically free of added sugars and additives, making them ideal for those that are looking to get the most out of their coffee while still following their diet. Plus, specialty coffee has a much higher antioxidant content compared to regular instant coffee. This means that you’re not only getting the desired weight-loss benefits, but also the added benefits that come with antioxidants.
Of course, making your own coffee can also be a great option. If you have access to a quality coffee grind and you’re willing to invest in a good coffee maker, you can easily make your own delicious and nutrient-rich coffee at home. You can choose how to prepare it, whether you want to make it with a filter, French press, or espresso machine. Plus, you can adjust the strength, sweetness, and caloric content to best fit your needs.
For those wanting to add a bit of flavor to their coffee, there are several low-carb and low-calorie options available. Coconut and almond milk, for example, can add flavor without adding a lot of carbohydrates or calories. Additionally, alternative sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, and monk fruit can be added to make your coffee a perfect low-calorie treat.
Coffee Alternatives
If you’re following the keto diet and looking to avoid all caffeine, there are plenty of alternatives that you can enjoy. Teas like green, white, oolong, and herbal teas provide a good dose of antioxidants and are virtually calorie-free. There are also flavored beverages like sparkling water, kombucha, and even mocktails that are free of added sugars and can be made quickly and easily.
Recommended Intake
Like any beverage, it’s important to be mindful of how much you intake. Consuming large amounts of caffeine can be unhealthy and can lead to heartburn or anxiety. The recommended daily intake for those following the keto diet should be limited to one to two cups of coffee. It’s also important to note that cold brew coffee should not be consumed in excess, as it can contain concentrated caffeine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to drink coffee while following a keto diet, provided it is done in moderation. Those that do not wish to drink coffee can find numerous alternatives to get the caffeine and antioxidants they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Ultimately, it is important to be mindful of the types of coffee you drink, as well as the ingredients added to them, to ensure you are getting the most out of your keto diet.
Keto Friendly Recipes
Keto dieters can also reap the benefits of caffeine with keto-friendly recipes featuring quality coffee blends. An example of a delicious and nutritious beverage is an iced mocha latte. To make this recipe, simply combine cold brew coffee, unsweetened cocoa powder, coconut oil and almond milk in a blender and blend on high for 30-60 seconds. To sweeten it up, add a tablespoon of stevia or monk fruit sweetener. This beverage is sure to help keep you energized and fueled throughout the day.
Benefits
With its ability to increase metabolism, cognitive performance, and burn fat, drinking coffee on the keto diet can be highly beneficial. It is also a great way to keep hunger cravings at bay and help promote weight loss. However, it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients and the types of coffee you choose to consume. By doing so, you can ensure you are gaining the most benefits while following the keto diet.
Tips
When buying coffee for a keto diet, it’s best to opt for specialty coffee, decaffeinated coffee, or make it at home. Additionally, when adding sweeteners to drinks, opt for natural alternatives like stevia, erythritol, and monk fruit. Finally, remember to limit your intake to one to two cups a day and avoid too much cold brew, as it can contain high amounts of caffeine.
