What you put into your body each morning plays a major role in how you’ll feel throughout the day—and it can also greatly impact your overall health over time. Your breakfast should provide the necessary fuel and nutrients to kickstart your metabolism and keep you going throughout the day. Unfortunately, some of the most popular breakfast options out there can be detrimental to your wellbeing and throw a wrench in your weight loss goals by slowing your metabolism. That includes a few beverages you may be drinking on a regular basis.
To discover some of the worst metabolism-ruining breakfast drinks out there, we spoke to physician Onyx Adegbola, MD, Ph.D. She told us that sugary fruit juice, sweetened non-dairy milk, and sugary coffee drinks should all be avoided if you’re looking to shed a few pounds. Learn more about the health effects of each of these beverages below!
1. Sugary fruit juice
It's easy to think that fruit juice is healthy because it comes from, well, fruit. But while fruit is undeniably a great addition to any diet, Adegbola warns that juice is another story, especially when it's store-bought. This is because it's typically loaded with sugar, which can lead to a range of health risks when consumed in excess.
"Many commercially available juices contain large quantities of added sugar that could quickly spike blood sugar and insulin levels, leading to an energy crash later and possibly slowing metabolism," she says.
Instead, she recommends reaching for whole fruit. If you really want to sip on some juice, making your own at home without adding sweeteners is always the best option. "Vegetable juices tend to contain even less added sugar," Adegbola notes. Here are some of the best veggies to add to your green juice.
2. Sweetened plant-based milk
Plant-based, non-dairy milks are certainly having a moment in the wellness world. However, it's important to pay attention to the nutrition label when you're choosing your milk. As it turns out, many varieties contain added sugar or other sweeteners that might take a toll on your metabolism over time.
"Many plant-based milks such as almond, coconut and soy contain added sugars and artificial flavors which could negatively impact your metabolism," Adegbola tells us.
"Opt for unsweetened and plain versions of non-dairy milks for maximum nutritional benefits," she suggests. "If additional flavoring is desired, sprinkle cinnamon or add vanilla extract as desired." Yum!
3. Sugary coffee drinks
Starting your day with a cup of coffee can be a great way to get the caffeine boost you need to start your morning. In fact, black coffee may even be able to promote weight loss. However, when you add a load of creamer, sugar, and other sweet ingredients to the mix, you're putting your health (and metabolism) at risk. That means it's best to lay off those special Starbucks orders, too.
"While these tasty beverages might taste tempting, they often contain too many calories and sugar that could contribute to weight gain and an impaired metabolism," Adegbola warns.
The best solution? "Opt for black coffee or tea and add milk, or milk substitute, as desired," she says. "For an extra dose of sweetness try honey or natural sweeteners like Stevia." Got it!
The bottom line
Ultimately, while a glass of fruit juice here and there isn't going to kill you, the beverages you choose to drink every morning can have a significant impact on your health over time. By making a habit of choosing healthy drink options over these sugary ones is one great way to improve your overall wellbeing, maintain a fast metabolism, and shed pounds at a steady rate.
