Coffee and milk are staples in many people’s diets, and the two can certainly go hand in hand in many circumstances. Certain coffee enthusiasts will even argue that coffee should not be consumed without milk. But is drinking coffee with milk bad for you?
Health experts have weighed in on the issue and pointed to certain health issues that can arise as a result of consuming coffee and milk together. Studies have found that consuming coffee with milk may not be the wisest dietary decision due to the potential of digestive problems, increased cholesterol, heart disease, and other issues.
To better understand why the combination of coffee and milk may not be ideal for your health, a closer look at its effects is necessary. Milk contains two components – fat and calcium. Both of these components in milk can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and cramps. Additionally, the fat in milk can lead to an increase in cholesterol levels, which can raise risk for stroke and heart disease.
Furthermore, studies have also shown that coffee with milk can lead to calcium deficiency. This can be especially concerning for those who consume large amounts of coffee each day, as the acidity of the beverage may interfere with the body’s absorption of calcium. This could lead to thinning of the bones, and potentially even more serious health issues.
Experts suggest that those who struggle with digestive issues, cholesterol, or calcium deficiencies should consider swapping out milk in their coffee for non-dairy alternatives. Some of the best options include unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk, which are naturally lower in calories and fat content and may contain beneficial vitamins and minerals.
In comparison, plant-based milks like almond and oat milks also have the added benefits of being lactose-free, which can also be beneficial for those who struggle with digestive issues. They are also free of hormones and antibiotics, which may be present in cow’s milk.
Health Benefits of Coffee
That said, when enjoyed in moderation, coffee has been widely studied and can actually offer some health benefits. Coffee is a rich source of antioxidants and can help to reduce inflammation in the body. It can also stimulate the metabolism, aiding in weight loss and helping to regulate blood sugar levels within the body.
Additionally, a cup of coffee can offer a range of mental benefits including improved focus, reduced fatigue, and increased alertness. Studies have also found that it may help to protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of cognitive decline.
Moderation is Key
To reap the benefits of coffee without the potential risks associated with drinking it with milk, opting for black coffee is generally considered the best option. When consumed in moderation, black coffee is generally considered to be safe for most people.
However, studies have also shown that all coffee, regardless of what is added, should ideally be consumed in moderation. This means that coffee should not be a major part of anyone’s diet. The American Heart Association suggests that adults limit their coffee consumption to approximately 400 milligrams, or four cups, per day.
Alternatives to Coffee with Milk
For those who enjoy the taste of coffee too much to cut back consumption, adding certain ingredients can make it tastier and healthier. Rather than adding milk, adding a little honey, nut butter, or cinnamon to your coffee can add flavor while providing some additional health benefits.
Coconut oil can also be added to coffee providing a rich source of healthy fats and energy. Additionally, adding only a small amount of coconut oil can help to reduce the acidity of black coffee and make it easier for some people to drink.
Sustainability Matters Too
Finally, the health implications of milk in coffee are not the only factor to take into consideration. There is also the potential environmental impact to consider. Cow’s milk production has been linked to higher amounts of water consumption and climate impact than that of other milk sources such as almond and oat milk.
Therefore, for health and sustainability, experts suggest choosing unsweetened plant-based milk for use in coffee. Not only can this offer health benefits, it can also help to reduce the environmental impact of milk production and consumption.
Nutritional Benefits of Plant-Based Milk
When it comes to the nutritional content of coffee with milk, most plant-based milks are a better choice compared to diary milk. Plant-based milks are typically much lower in fat content, and lack of dairy can also remove unwanted calories and sugar from a cup of coffee. Furthermore, almond milk, oat milk and coconut milk have the added benefit of containing higher amounts of certain vitamins and minerals than cow’s milk, such as calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12.
In conclusion, while coffee and milk can go together, experts warn that drinking coffee with milk can have some potentially detrimental health effects. It is suggested that those experiencing certain health issues should avoid dairy milk in their coffee, and opt instead for non-dairy alternatives like almond, oat, and coconut milk.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best source of caffeine is ultimately up to personal preference. Black coffee is specifically beneficial for those looking to cut out extra sugar and calories, but for those seeking more flavor with their coffee, plant-based milks provide a healthier alternative to dairy milk.
For those who are health and sustainability-conscious, exploring non-dairy options for your coffee is the way to go. Not only can plant-based milks offer a range of health benefits, they can also help to reduce the environmental impact of milk production.
