Sugary syrups in coffee: Sweet temptation or health risk?
Many people reach for coffee in the morning. We drink it with breakfast, brew it at work, and serve it to guests. Some prefer to drink it without any additives to savor the pure aroma of the beans. Others like to sweeten and enhance it with additions. However, experts warn about the potential consequences of these choices.
6:36 AM EST, November 6, 2024
Coffee is a powerhouse of antioxidants that neutralize harmful free radicals and slow aging. Regular coffee consumption may contribute to weight loss, improve circulatory system function, and ease muscle pain. These benefits are due to the caffeine and numerous bioactive compounds it contains. Nonetheless, this doesn't mean coffee is without flaws; too much of anything can be harmful. Its health benefits can also be diminished if you choose the wrong additives.
The worst additive to coffee
In the fall and winter, coffee shops tempt us with sweet drinks. Some choose the classic pumpkin spice latte, while others wait for various winter coffees with gingerbread, caramel, or chocolate syrups. Such coffee becomes more of a dessert than a drink; not everyone realizes this.
The amount of sugar in these drinks can be exceptionally high. Sugar, the sweet enemy of our figure and health, often finds its way into our coffee cups. Excessive sugar intake can lead to serious health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. If we care about maintaining good health and well-being, it's worth giving up this sweet addiction.
A standard serving of caramel syrup contains about 100 calories and 25 grams of sugar, which is the daily sugar intake limit for an adult, as dietitian Tamar Samuels emphasizes.
The World Health Organization recommends that sugar should provide no more than 10% of daily energy intake. For an adult, this means about 200 kcal from sugar per day, equivalent to roughly 10-12 teaspoons. Meanwhile, sweet coffee drinks can contain several teaspoons of sugar in just one serving. It's also important to remember that sugar naturally occurs in other products. Therefore, there's no need to add more to overly-sweetened coffee.
- For example, a typical four-pump serving of caramel syrup contains about 100 calories and 25 grams of sugar ― that’s the recommended daily limit of sugar for adults, emphasizes dietitian Tamar Samuels in an interview with "HuffPost."
What to replace syrup in coffee with?
Instead of sweet syrups, consider using spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or turmeric. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels and boosts metabolism, while turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and enhances immunity. These spices not only make coffee tastier but also healthier.
Simply add a pinch to your brewed coffee to enjoy the flavor without guilt or unnecessary sugar. They will enhance the aroma and promote a healthy metabolism.
