Hidden Calories In Coffee Additives Pose Health Risk, Study Finds

Research examining nearly two decades of nutritional data has identified a concerning trend: coffee, often perceived as a low-calorie beverage, becomes a substantial source of calories once milk, cream, sugar, and flavoured syrups are added.

Scientists analysing dietary surveys from 2003 to 2018 tracked consumption patterns among adults aged 20 and above, revealing that flavoured and sweetened coffee preparations contribute meaningfully to total daily calorie consumption. The research suggests that many consumers underestimate the caloric impact of their morning coffee ritual, potentially compromising dietary goals and weight management efforts.

The study highlights a disconnect between public perception of coffee as a healthy beverage and the reality of how it is typically consumed. While black coffee contains minimal calories, the addition of creamers, milk alternatives, sugars, and syrups can transform a cup into a calorie-dense drink rivalling desserts in nutritional impact.

Nutritionists emphasise that individuals monitoring their weight or managing metabolic health should scrutinise their coffee preparation methods. Switching to black coffee, using low-calorie sweeteners, or reducing portion sizes of add-ins can substantially decrease hidden calorie consumption throughout the day, experts suggest.

Photo: A cup of 3-in-1 instant coffee made with sugar and milk powder, June 2016. Vyacheslav Argenberg via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0).