5 Reasons Drinking Coffee is Compatible with Paleo Diet
Coffee has long been a favorite beverage for health-conscious individuals, but is it compatible with the Paleo lifestyle? The good news for coffee lovers is that you don’t have to miss out on your daily dose of caffeine; you can enjoy it on the Paleo Diet, with some caveats. Here’s why.
Full of Antioxidants
The main reason for drinking coffee on the Paleo lifestyle is that it is packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight free radical damage and hinder aging. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and the European Journal of Nutrition, regular coffee consumption is linked to a longer lifespan and is associated with reduced risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
No Added Sugars and Dairy
When it comes to the Paleo Diet, it’s important to stick with the basics, which are healthy and natural foods that are free of added sugars and dairy. Fortunately, regular black coffee is Paleo-compliant. In other words, plain coffee is an ideal way to get your caffeine fix without incurring the dietary penalties that come with added sugars and dairy.
Freshens Your Breath
Coffee also acts as a natural breath freshener. According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, coffee can help reduce bacterial growth in the mouth and reduce bad breath. This suggests that coffee can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, which is essential for Paleo dieters.
Reduced Caffeine Intake
Cutting back on caffeine intake is an important part of following a Paleo Diet. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine states that excessive caffeine intake can interfere with healthy sleeping habits. In order to address this, many Paleos opt for reducing their caffeine intake by switching to decaffeinated coffee.
Boosted Metabolism
Finally, on a Paleo Diet, it’s important to maintain a healthy and active metabolism. Studies have shown that drinking coffee can help boost your metabolism, which is beneficial for dieters. According to the US National Library of Medicine, drinking coffee may help you burn more calories and fat.
Improved Cognitive Function
Coffee can also provide a brain boost and improve cognitive function. A study from the University of British Columbia found that caffeine can increase alertness and focus, allowing for more productivity and higher performance.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to coffee’s antioxidant powers, coffee provides some essential vitamins and minerals that can also benefit health. Coffee has small amounts of chromium and potassium, as well as magnesium and other essential minerals. In addition, coffee is also a source of essential fatty acids, which are important for a healthy brain and cardiac health.
Drinking Coffee in Moderation
Though coffee is an important part of the Paleo Diet, it is important to drink it in moderation. Too much caffeine can lead to jittery behavior, headaches, insomnia, and other symptoms. The key to successfully drinking coffee while following the Paleo Diet is to do so in moderation and without adding too many unhealthy ingredients.
Coffee as an Inclusion in One’s Paleo Diet
The Paleo diet is a lifestyle focused on natural and minimally processed foods. It does not require the avoidance of coffee, as long as it is free from unhealthy extras, such as sugar and dairy. In fact, engaging in coffee consumption can provide a number of health benefits, including antioxidants, improved cognitive function, and boosted metabolism. By engaging in coffee drinking in moderation while adhering to the Paleo lifestyle, individuals can enjoy the benefits of coffee without sacrificing their overall health.
Benefits of Coffee with Paleo Recipes
From adding a unique flavor to Paleo recipes to using it as a base in smoothies, adding coffee to your Paleo Diet can be a tasty and beneficial aspect of your diet. For example, adding a scoop of cold-brewed coffee to Paleo-friendly desserts can enhance the flavor and create a more robust taste. In addition, adding a shot or two of espresso or cold brew coffee to a Paleo smoothie can give you energy and help you feel full throughout the day.
Coffee Alternatives
If you prefer to avoid coffee in your Paleo Diet, there are plenty of coffee alternatives. Teas are a great option, such as herbal teas, white tea, and green tea. Other alternatives are Yerba mate, matcha, and dandelion root tea, which provide mild levels of caffeine. Another choice is chicory coffee, which is an herbal beverage made from the roots of the chicory plant. Chicory coffee provides a similar flavor, texture, and brewing process as regular coffee, without the caffeine.
Side Effects and Health Concerns with Coffee
Like anything else in life, moderation is key when it comes to consuming coffee on the Paleo Diet. While it can provide plenty of healthy benefits, drinking too much of it can lead to certain side effects and health concerns. For instance, drinking too much coffee can cause nausea, jitters, and insomnia. In addition, too much caffeine can also interfere with the absorption of essential minerals like calcium and iron, so it should not be consumed in excess.
Best Ways to Drink Coffee when on the Paleo Diet
If you are looking for the best ways to drink coffee while following a Paleo Diet, start by avoiding anything with added ingredients. For instance, creamy, frosty blended coffees may be tempting, but they contain dairy, which is not allowed on the Paleo Diet. To get the most health benefits out of coffee, choose organic, fair-trade, and high-quality beans. Also, use natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, coconut sugar, or stevia.
Conclusion
By following some simple tips and remembering to drink coffee in moderation, you can enjoy the many health benefits of coffee on the Paleo Diet. Not only can it satisfy your daily caffeine craving, but it can also provide antioxidants and other essential nutrients that are essential for optimal health. Remember, the key is to stick to basic, natural coffee and avoid adding unhealthy ingredients.
