Overview
Bulletproof coffee is a highly caffeinated drink which consists of coffee, grass-fed butter and medium-chain triglycerides. Invented by entrepreneur and biohacker Dave Asprey, it is marketed as giving people more energy and promoting weight loss. But is it safe to drink bulletproof coffee every day? Many experts believe it can be, as long as the drinker understands that it is not a meal replacement and is careful to consume it in the right amounts.
Long-Term Health Benefits
Since bulletproof coffee is made with high-quality ingredients, it can actually offer some long-term health benefits. Medium-chain triglycerides, which make up the bulk of the drink, are easily absorbed into the body, providing a long-term source of energy. Grass-fed butter is also a good source of proteins, healthy fats and vitamins. Additionally, the caffeine in bulletproof coffee can provide a significant boost in energy and alertness.
Possible Side Effects
Although bulletproof coffee is generally considered safe, there may be some short-term side effects in certain individuals. For example, the high amount of caffeine in the drink can cause increased heart rate, jitteriness and, in extreme cases, insomnia. Additionally, ingesting too many calories from the drink can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
Tips for Drinking Bulletproof Coffee Safely
To ensure bulletproof coffee is enjoyed safely over the long-term, experts recommend that consumers take certain precautions when drinking the beverage. First and foremost, they suggest that people limit their daily intake – no more than one or two cups per day – and monitor the additional calories and fats it provides to help regulate their overall diet. Additionally, people should drink the beverage with food, so that their stomach does not become overly acidic from the caffeine and fat in the drink.
Alternatives to Bulletproof Coffee
There are many healthier alternatives to bulletproof coffee for those individuals looking for a morning pick-me-up. Green tea is one such option, as it still provides plenty of caffeine but without the additional calories and fat from the butter and MCTs in bulletproof coffee. Other alternatives include lighter, more health-conscious coffee drinks like cold brews or powdered coffee beverages.
Ideal Occasions to Drink Bulletproof Coffee
Bulletproof coffee should primarily be consumed during periods of heavy mental or physical exertion, or when individuals need extra focus during the day. It can also be used in place of a meal when short on time, as it will provide a quick burst of energy and fill up the stomach – though only for a short period of time.
Bulletproof Coffee and Diabetes
Recent studies have demonstrated that consuming grass-fed butter can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, helping those with diabetes manage their condition. Medium-chain triglycerides have also been found to help reduce spikes in glucose levels caused by foods containing carbohydrates. For these reasons, some experts suggest that bulletproof coffee can be a beneficial drink for people with diabetes, as long as it is consumed in moderation and not over-relied upon.
Bulletproof Coffee and Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting has surged in popularity among those looking to lose or maintain a healthy weight, as well as those searching for anti-aging benefits. Bulletproof coffee can actually help support this diet, as it can provide the energy one needs for the day without breaking a fast cycle. It is important to note, however, that bulletproof coffee is not a meal replacement, and experts recommend that individuals adhere to their designated fasting period without consuming anything else.
Additional Considerations
It is essential that individuals consider their unique body chemistry before drinking bulletproof coffee on a regular basis. Some people may experience adverse effects if they consume too many calories or fats from the drink, so it is important that individuals experiment with the beverage to understand their own tolerance level. Additionally, many experts suggest that people consult with their doctor before consuming bulletproof coffee, to ensure that it is an appropriate beverage for them.
