79% of Americans reportedly drink 2+ cups of coffee per day, which is why it’s especially great news that this caffeinated beverage has been shown to promote healthy weight loss by boosting metabolism, suppressing appetite, and more. That’s right: coffee has many health benefits, and it may even help you lose weight. However, if you want to take advantage of these benefits, it’s important to remember that adding the wrong ingredients to your mug can actually negate the health effects altogether. Rather than loading your coffee with sugar and other additives, experts agree that taking it black is the best protocol for your overall health, especially if you’re trying to shed some pounds.
To learn more about why you should drink black coffee for weight loss, we spoke to health experts Dr. Daniel Boyer, MD and dietitian Trista Best of Balance One Supplements. They told us that lowering the calories in your cup and limiting your sugar intake is crucial to slimming down. Learn more below!
READ MORE: The Worst Things You Can Add To Your Coffee If You’re Trying To Lose Weight, According To Dietitians
Black coffee for weight loss
Sorry, sugar lovers! Health experts agree that leaving out the sweeteners and creams and going for plain old black coffee is the best way to reap the fat-burning benefits of this morning beverage without putting your health at risk. "Black coffee is the best choice for someone trying to lose weight," Boyer confirms. Unlike a latte (or worse, a sugar-loaded Frappuccino), black coffee is calorie-free and can even "speed up your metabolism due to its main constituent, caffeine, all of which are factors that enhance weight loss."
"Trading your sugar and cream-filled coffee for black coffee may help with weight loss efforts," Best agrees. She tells us that swapping your usual creamy, sweet Starbucks order for a black cup of joe could do wonders for your health—and your waistline. "By opting for black coffee over calorie-filled versions, you are instantly reducing your calorie intake by almost hundreds, which over time may reflect in your weight," she says.
If you don't love the taste of black coffee, you're certainly not alone. Many of us can't resist the taste of syrups, sugars, and sweet creamers in or daily beverages. However, the difference it can make in your health will be well worth it, and Boyer reminds us that you don't have to make the switch all at once. "Coffee has a bitter taste," he acknowledges. "The best way to get used to it is by reducing the amount of your sweetener gradually until you may be able to take it completely black." If you really want to kick up, the health benefits, you can even add cinnamon to your coffee.
Overall, even a small change can make a difference. If you trade sugary creamers for unsweetened plant-based milk and/or give up refined sugar for natural sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia, you'll already be on the right path.
