Coffee and Weight Loss: What the Science Says

Drinking an extra cup of unsweetened coffee each day was associated with a reduced risk of gaining weight over a four-year period, a study found. Nutritionists weighed in with thoughts.

Coffee and Weight Loss: What the Science Says
drinking an extra cup of unsweetened coffee

A recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that daily consumption of unsweetened coffee was associated with a reduced risk of weight gain over four years however if one adds a teaspoon of sugar to one’s coffee, the benefit is cancelled.

The study looked at data from three large cohort studies, with more than 100,000 participants. The researchers found that people who increased their intake of unsweetened coffee by one cup a day lost an average of 0.12 kilograms (0.26 lb) over four years compared to those who didn’t change of the coffee drinking

The addition of sugar to coffee negated the weight loss benefit, and participants who added one teaspoon of sugar per day gained an average of 0.09 kilograms (0.20 lb) . in four years

Researchers believe that coffee can help with weight loss by improving metabolism, increasing digestion and promoting fat burning. But they caution that studies have only shown a link between coffee and weight loss, not a cause-and-effect relationship.

Nutritionists not involved in the study say the findings are promising, but more research is needed. They also emphasize the importance of considering other factors that may affect weight, such as diet, physical activity, and genetics.

Here are some tips for enjoying coffee without sabotaging your weight loss goals:

Drink junk food or small calorie-free sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
Avoid adding cream, dairy, or other high-calorie products.
Limit your caffeine intake to 400 milligrams a day, which is about four cups of brewed coffee.
If you’re concerned about potential side effects from caffeine, such as anxiety or insomnia, talk to your thoughts