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Is Coffee Healthy If It Has Creamer?
Add creamer to your coffee, and not only are you cutting back on calories but also diminishing any potential health benefits it could bring. Coffee has been shown to reduce risk for heart disease and improve brain function; but any such benefits are lost when sugar, syrups or cream is added as it dilutes its effectiveness.
An average cup of coffee contains between 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine, depending on its blend. By using milk or dairy creamers in your coffee, however, its caffeine concentration will decrease by an almost negligible amount.
However, many creamers contain added sugars and saturated fats that could damage your health. One tablespoon of creamer contains roughly five grams of added sugars and two grams of saturated fats; according to health guidelines for 2,000-calorie diets this amounts to 50 grams a day; adding just a few spoons of creamer may quickly exceed this threshold.
Some creamers contain not only high levels of saturated fats but also partially hydrogenated oil – an unhealthy trans fat – making your coffee even less healthy while increasing risk for heart disease and cholesterol levels. Luckily, healthier options of coffee creamer can be found at grocery stores.
These healthy options not only cut back on sugar consumption, but they can also add vital vitamins and minerals. Unsweetened almond milk is an ideal non-dairy option that’s low in calories yet tastes similar to regular whole milk – perfect for lactose intolerant individuals! And can easily be found at most grocery stores.
Consider using coconut milk or ghee as additional options. Both healthy natural fats can add a creamy texture to your coffee while providing essential vitamins. Ghee is particularly rich in medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide sustained energy levels as well as help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
When selecting a creamer, it’s essential to read through its ingredients list and choose one with minimal saturated fat, added sugars and gums/emulsifiers. In addition, be sure to consult its nutrition facts label; an ideal creamer should contain only simple ingredients while providing essential nutrition.
