How to Cut Calories in Your Coffee
If you’re like most coffee drinkers, you probably enjoy a cup or two every day. But did you know that your daily brew could be adding unwanted calories to your diet? Many coffee drinks are loaded with sugar, cream, and other additives that can quickly add up to hundreds of calories per serving. But don’t worry – there are simple steps you can take to make your coffee healthier without sacrificing flavor. Here’s how to cut calories in your coffee:
1. Choose Black Coffee
The simplest way to cut calories from your coffee is to drink it black. A standard cup of black coffee contains just 2 calories, making it a virtually calorie-free beverage. Black coffee also has the added benefit of being rich in antioxidants and other healthful compounds that can promote overall wellness. If the strong, bitter taste of black coffee is off-putting, you can gradually reduce the amount of sugar or cream you use until you become accustomed to the natural flavor of the coffee itself.
2. Use Low-Calorie Sweeteners
If you can’t bear the thought of giving up your sweetened coffee, try swapping out your regular sugar for a low-calorie sweetener. Stevia, Splenda, and other artificial sweeteners are virtually calorie-free and can provide the sweetness you crave without adding any unwanted calories. While some people are wary of using artificial sweeteners due to health concerns, numerous studies have shown that they are generally safe to use in moderation.
3. Switch to Low-Fat Milk or Soy Milk
If you’re a fan of creamy coffee drinks, you don’t have to give them up entirely – just switch to a lower-calorie milk. Regular dairy milk contains around 60-70 calories per serving, while low-fat or skim milk contains only around 35-45 calories. You can also opt for soy milk, which is naturally lower in calories than cow’s milk. Just be sure to choose unsweetened varieties to avoid adding unnecessary sugar to your drink.
4. Skip the Whipped Cream and Syrups
One of the biggest calorie culprits in coffee drinks is whipped cream and flavored syrups. A single dollop of whipped cream contains around 50 calories, while a typical serving of syrup can add 100 or more calories to your drink. If you can’t resist the allure of a flavored coffee drink, try ordering it with just a small amount of syrup, or ask for whipped cream on the side so you can control how much you use.
5. Choose Which type of coffee that has the least calories?
If you’re looking for the type of coffee with the least calories, your best bet is to stick with drip coffee or espresso. These types of coffee typically contain fewer calories than brewed coffee or other specialty drinks. For example, a shot of espresso contains just 3 calories, while a 12-ounce cup of drip coffee contains around 5-10 calories. Just be sure to skip the added cream and sugar to keep your drink as low-calorie as possible.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cutting calories in your coffee is a simple way to reduce your overall calorie intake without sacrificing your favorite beverage. By choosing black coffee, low-calorie sweeteners, low-fat milk, and skipping the whipped cream and syrups, you can enjoy a satisfying coffee drink that won’t derail your diet. And if you’re concerned about the health effects of artificial sweeteners or other additives, remember that a plain cup of black coffee is always a safe and healthy option. So drink up, and cheers to a healthier you!
