As the new year unfolds, many of us are resolving to lead a healthier life. And in some cases, that means shedding a few pounds. While there are many healthy habits you can incorporate into your daily routine as you work towards your weight loss goals in 2024, one of the most important places to start is your diet. There are so many healthy foods to add to your plate to boost weight loss—but there are also a lot of things health experts recommend avoiding if you want to slim down. One thing you may not have considered is the ingredients you’re adding to your morning cup of coffee, which could hold you back from the body of your dreams.
To shed some light on some of the least healthy coffee ingredients that make it difficult to lose weight, we spoke to registered nurse Lauren Thayer. She told us that it’s a good idea to leave powdered creamer, flavored syrups, and whipped cream in 2023 if you want to lose weight this year. Read on for all of her expert insight and advice regarding these popular but detrimental ingredients.
1. Powdered Creamer
Powdered creamer is a popular option amongst many coffee enjoyers. Oftentimes flavored, it can certainly be a tasty addition to your cup of joe. However, Thayer warns that regularly consuming this ingredient could thwart your weight loss goals. "Powdered creamers are full of flavoring agents, sweeteners, and partially hydrogenated oil or trans fat," she warns. While these flavor-packed packets may tempt your taste buds, they come at a cost: extra calories and unhealthy fats. Luckily, there are other options. "A healthier alternative would be a plant-based milk or sugar-free substitute similar in flavor," she says. By choosing a cleaner option, you can savor your coffee without compromising your weight loss efforts.
2. Flavored Syrups
Who doesn't love a vanilla latte from time to time? Flavored syrups can turn bitter coffee into an indulgent sweet treat; but unfortunately, making a habit out of consuming these ingredients can take a serious toll on your body. "Packed full of added sugar and calories that can really start to add up," Thayer warns. It's no secret that sugar can lead to a range of health consequences, and regularly using syrups in your coffee is one easy way for sugar to sneak into your diet. If you crave sweetness in your coffee but aim to avoid the calorie and sugar overload, Thayer recommends, "Consider using something like honey or maple syrup to sweeten your coffee." These alternatives add sweetness without the guilt, allowing you to enjoy your coffee with a health-conscious approach.
3. Whipped Cream
While whipped cream may add a whimsical touch to your coffee and make breakfast feel like dessert, Thayer warns against its less-than-ideal nutritional profile, pointing out that it has "An incredible amount of sugar, fat, and calories that could otherwise be avoided." For this reason, she cautions against making whipped cream a daily coffee companion. For those who crave creaminess, Thayer offers a healthier solution: "Froth up some milk to add to your coffee drink." This way, you can indulge in a creamy texture without compromising your weight loss goals. Perfect!
Healthier alternatives
To elevate your coffee experience without sacrificing health, Thayer proposes alternative flavor enhancers. "If you need some added flavor in your coffee, try using some whole milk or plant-based milk and spices such as cinnamon." These alternatives, she notes, are not only healthier but also provide an opportunity for experimentation with different combinations to suit your taste preferences. In fact, cinnamon even comes with metabolism-boosting benefits. It's a win-win!
As you embark on your journey towards a healthier you in 2024, let Thayer's insights serve as a guide to reevaluate and revamp your morning coffee routine. By bidding farewell to powdered creamers, flavored syrups, and whipped cream, and embracing healthier alternatives, you can savor your coffee guilt-free. Remember, the smallest changes can have the biggest impact on your journey to a healthier, happier you.
