By Nancy Adler
One of the first questions I’m asked when setting someone on a weight loss / life changing plan is “Does drinking coffee hinder the weight loss process?” While some people may say that coffee helps in weight loss, others say it makes you gain some extra pounds. So, you might be confused about whether drinking coffee while dieting is good or bad. Yes, you can enjoy your cup of coffee guilt free in your journey to weight loss.
Billions of people fuel themselves up in the morning with a cup of coffee. This is because caffeine stimulates energy and helps you stay awake for longer hours. Drinking coffee curbs your appetite, which means you eat less and lose weight easily. While sweetened coffee beverages will not be of any help, it is important to choose the right coffee. Try not to indulge in flavored coffees and creamers. Even sugar free varieties will hold extra pounds that you’ll never shake.
I advise clients to drink plain coffee without milk or sugar, which has a negligible amount of calories. Espresso has just 3 calories and brewed coffee has 5 calories in total. But if you are adding sugar to your coffee, it can add on 16 calories per tablespoon to your cup. If you cannot consume coffee without sugar or cream, then you can choose to add a small amount of honey or real maple syrup with a splash of milk to your coffee. This will add a lot of flavour with minimal calories.
Are you on a strict weight loss diet? You might have been advised by your nutritionist or fitness trainer to consume a cup of black coffee everyday. This is because black coffee works magic on your body to cut down extra fat. Also, for those who are working hard in the gym to get in shape, black coffee has some powerful antioxidants which provides energy to your body to exercise for longer hours. Moreover, drinking a cup of black coffee before work out can help you recover from muscle tear or soreness.
While coffee may temporarily squelch your appetite, it can be harmful if not consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption of coffee can result in sleeplessness, anxiety and an increase in blood pressure. For some it can also disturb the bowel movement and cause discomfort. Therefore, it is advised to drink only 1-2 cups of coffee a day and rationalise your caffeine intake for better results in weight loss.
Nancy Adler is a certified nutritionist and practitioner in Linwood. Her office is located in Cornerstone Commerce Center, 1201 New Rd. Learn about her practice at ww.nancyadlernutrition.com (609)653-4900
You may listen to Nancy every Sunday at 2 pm Nancy Adler Nutrition LIVE! NewsTalk 1400 WOND
