Coffee is a staple for many individuals, and its ability to uplift one's mood is well-known. However, it can also come in handy if you're looking to shed some extra pounds. In an interview with Laura Burak MS, RD, founder of GetNaked® Nutrition and author of Slim Down with Smoothies, we explored the benefits of incorporating coffee into your weight loss journey.
While Burak emphasizes that coffee should not replace meals or snacks, it can temporarily suppress appetite and help you skip unnecessary calories. However, she warns against using coffee as a substitute for food, particularly for those with a history of dieting.
If you're looking to lose weight, adding coffee to your existing plan can be a beneficial step. Read on to discover the ways in which coffee can aid in weight loss. Additionally, don't forget to check out Do These 5 Things Every Morning To Lose Weight Faster, Dietitian Says.
Coffee's Ability to Make you Feel Full: How it Can Aid in Weight Loss
According to Laura Burak, coffee can make you feel full and help you eat an appropriate amount of food if you're looking to lose weight. As a liquid, coffee can help keep your stomach feeling full, similar to water. This can prevent overeating or unhealthy snacking, making it a helpful addition to your weight loss regimen. However, Burak emphasizes that coffee should not be a substitute for meals or snacks, and urges those who are hungry to eat instead of relying on coffee to suppress their appetite.
The Energizing Effect of Coffee on Your Metabolism
According to Laura Burak, coffee's caffeine content can provide an energy boost and increase your metabolism, making it easier to kickstart your day or even make it to your workout.
"The caffeine in coffee can be a great pick-me-up in the morning, providing energy and motivation. As a busy mom, coffee is part of my calming morning ritual and helps me start my day on the right foot," Burak explains. However, it's important to prioritize getting quality sleep and not rely on coffee as a crutch for artificial energy.
The Calorie Count in Black Coffee is Very Low
According to Burak, if you like your coffee without any additives, it's an extremely low-calorie drink with less than five calories per cup. With no added sugar and negligible calories, black coffee can be an excellent beverage choice if you're looking to shed some pounds.
Be Cautious of the Additions you Include in Your Coffee.
While seasonal lattes and flavored coffees may be tempting, they can be detrimental to your weight loss goals. Many people have the habit of adding creamers, syrups, whipped cream, and flavored milks, which can turn a simple cup of coffee into a high-calorie drink loaded with added sugar and saturated fat.
According to Burak, it is essential to be aware of these extras, whether or not weight loss is your goal. Consuming too much coffee can lead to jitters, increased anxiety, and sleep disruption. It's important to keep your coffee intake to a few cups a day and drink enough water to stay properly hydrated.