For many people, morning coffee is a ritual that makes it hard to imagine the start of the day.
Coffee is rich in antioxidants that are essential for our bodies and can aid in weight loss. However, if unsuitable ingredients are added to this invigorating drink, it can negatively affect health. Many popular coffee additives contain sugar and other harmful components, increasing the risk of weight gain, inflammation, and other health issues. If you do not prefer classic black coffee, it is important to know which milk is best to add to maximize its benefits. This is reported by She Finds.
Many people experience lactose intolerance, and nutritionists do not recommend using whole cow's milk in coffee.
Some types of milk often contain added sugars and flavorings, which is also not an optimal choice for health. Nevertheless, there are many healthy alternatives! Dietitian Kelsey Costa claims that soy milk, especially fortified, is one of the healthiest options to add to coffee.
Although almond and oat milk have become more popular in recent years, Costa emphasizes that soy milk is “the top recommendation when it comes to the healthiest milk for your coffee.” According to her, “it has numerous health benefits that set it apart from other types of milk,” not to mention its “smooth and creamy texture.”
High Protein Content
What makes this milk so beneficial? First, the dietitian notes that the soybeans from which it is made are “an excellent source of plant-based protein,” making this milk “a great choice for those looking to increase their protein intake or switch to a more plant-based diet.” One serving contains 7 grams of protein, making it the highest protein content among other plant milks. In fact, “fortified soy milk is the only plant milk recognized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a nutritional alternative to cow's milk,” says the expert.
Healthy Fats
But soy milk is not only rich in protein. The dietitian adds that it also contains healthy fatty acids that can positively impact heart health. “It is also often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium and vitamin D, which are critical for bone health,” notes Costa. “Thus, considering the balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, fortified soy milk is the best choice for your coffee.”
Safety of Soy Milk
If you have heard that soy products can trigger hormone-dependent cancers, there is no need to worry. Costa assures that this is a myth. “In fact, numerous studies have confirmed the safety and significant health benefits of these products, even suggesting that isoflavones may protect against some common types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer.”
“Choosing unsweetened soy milk will help avoid added sugars, which contributes to achieving your weight loss and health goals,” emphasizes the dietitian.
Reducing added sugar intake in your diet is important, regardless of which type of milk you choose, as excessive sugar consumption can lead to serious health risks, including weight gain.
Ultimately, most experts agree that the healthiest coffee is classic black coffee, without added milk (or with the addition of healthy spices). However, if you want to add a bit of creaminess, the dietitian assures that soy milk is likely to be the healthiest option for your health.
Source: 1001sovet
