Experts Agree: This Is The One Morning Beverage You Should Avoid At All Costs Because It Slows Your Metabolism

Premade, Processed Coffee Drinks

Let's face it: sometimes you simply need a caffeine boost to get through the day—and coffee is one of the best ways to get that boost. But if you don't love the taste of black coffee, you may find yourself reaching for options with lots of sugar, milk, and flavorings. And when you don't have time to wait in line at Starbucks in the morning, a bottled, premade coffee drink can be a quick and tasty fix. Why waste precious time waiting for a Frappuccino or white mocha when you can stock up on the premade varieties right in your very own fridge?

However, Richards warns that while "premade and processed coffee drinks are a convenient alternative to standing in line for a traditional sugar-laden coffee," one downside remains the same: "They contain empty calories, fat, and added sugar." Whether you order your sugary beverage at the coffee shop itself or pull it from your own refrigerator, these processed, ingredient-loaded drinks can take a serious toll on your health. That's why Richard says it's best to limit your intake of them as much as possible, especially if you want to avoid slowing your metabolism and gaining weight. 

If you can't go without your morning coffee, there are healthier options to consider. "If you insist on drinking these beverages it is best to look for options that are 100 calories or less, to limit the amount of empty calories you drink in a day," Richards suggests. "You should also look for no, or low added sugar," she adds, noting that although it may make your morning beverage taste sweeter, this ingredient is "a contributor to metabolic disorders and raised triglycerides." Yikes! Of course, at the end of the day, your best bet is just plain black coffee; that will always be the healthiest option. Hey, maybe you'll even learn to love the taste!