Introduction
It is important to remain mindful of what we are eating and drinking when we are trying to maintain a healthy diet. Coffee is a popular beverage and whilst on the Atkins Diet, many people are opting to drink it in moderation, but how beneficial is this? Nutritionists have varying opinions on the subject and so it is beneficial to understand what is involved and whether it is a suitable drink to consume when on the Atkins Diet.
Background
Coffee is a hot beverage that is derived from the roasted beans of the Coffea plant. It is usually drank to help increase alertness and productivity and it is the second most traded commodity, after oil. It is estimated that in the USA alone there are 400 million coffees consumed each day and worldwide, over 6 billion tonnes of coffee are produced each year.
The Atkins diet is a low-carb, high-fat diet that encourages the body to use fat for energy. It also involves reducing the intake of processed foods, as well as limiting carbohydrates from starches and sugars. The idea behind the Atkins diet is that when the body is deprived of carbohydrates, it will turn to fat for energy and this theoretically leads to rapid weight loss.
Benefits
There are certain benefits to drinking coffee when on the Atkins Diet. Coffee is a natural stimulator and it can help to boost energy levels and concentration. This can be especially beneficial to those on the Low-carb Atkins Diet, as they may experience fatigue as their body is adjusting to the dietary changes. In addition, coffee can contain antioxidants that can aid digestion and help to reduce inflammation.
Drawbacks
The main drawback of drinking coffee when on the Atkins Diet is the addition of sugar and cream which can contain added calories. Black coffee, without these extras, is more suitable for the Atkins Diet and individuals will need to be aware of the additional calories as these could hinder their progress on the diet. In addition, it is widely advised that coffee should not be consumed late in the day as it can lead to impaired sleeping patterns, which can in turn, adversely affect the success of the diet, as it’s essential to achieve adequate rest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whilst it may be possible to drink coffee when on the Atkins Diet, it is important to be mindful of the amount consumed, as well as the added calorie content. Black coffee is the most suitable option and it is beneficial to consider the effects caffeine can have on sleeping patterns, as rest is essential when following a diet such as the Atkins Diet.
Altering the taste
Individuals may find that black coffee is not to their liking and that sugar and cream help to make it more palatable. Many are unaware that the Atkins diet does permit the occasional sugar and cream, providing that these are consumed in moderation. The most advantageous alterative to adding cream and sugar is to use a healthy alternative such as almond milk, which still provides a delicious taste and sensation.
Coffee alternatives
An increased attention to sugar and cream should not prevent individuals from quenching their thirst and those on the Atkins Diet can substitute coffee for natural foods and drinks such as herbal tea. Herbal teas are great for their calorie-free hydration proposal and they provide numerous health benefits such as aiding digestion, reducing stress and improving the immune system.
Supplements
Alongside herbal teas, individuals can look to take supplements that can help to improve mental clarity and productivity. Natural omega3 fatty acids are essential for overall wellbeing and they can aid in improving mental resilience and focus. Fish oils or supplements that contain omega 3 fatty acids are a great option for individuals looking for a caffeine-free alternative.
Sleeping patterns
Individuals that drink coffee during the day must be cautious to consume it a sensible time in order to ensure that quality sleep is achieved. Too much caffeine too late in the day can still disrupt sleep, regardless of the number of hours spent in bed. This can lead to a hormonal imbalance, fatigue, irritability and reduced productivity.
Exercise
Physical activity is essential when following the Atkins Diet and engaging in regular exercise is an excellent way to increase the effectiveness of the diet. Exercise can be used to increase metabolism and can also reduce cravings for unhealthy foods. It can also help to alleviate stress and anxiety associated with the Atkins diet and it can be a great motivator for individuals to stay on track and committed to the diet.
In summary, moderate consumption of coffee can be beneficial to individuals on the Atkins Diet, without the risk of disrupting quality of sleep. However, individuals should be mindful of additional sugar and cream and opt for healthier alternatives such as almond milk or herbal tea. It is also important to combine their diet with exercise and ensure that adequate rest is achieved to maximise their effectiveness with the Atkins Diet.
