Is Protein Coffee a Good Daily Choice? Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography – Getty Images”Please note that Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may receive commission or revenue from some of the links provided in this article.”If you’re like many of us at Women’s Health, that first sip of coffee is what you look forward to as you wake up. The sound of the coffee machine, the frother in action, the smell of your freshly brewed cup, and that initial invigorating taste all come to mind. But in recent times, a new addition has made its way into the ritual of making your morning brew: a scoop of protein powder. You may have noticed this trendy hack all over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and let me assure you, it’s worth the buzz.You might be wondering: Will adding protein powder affect the taste of my coffee? What if it clumps up? Can you mix the powder directly into your cup? Is protein coffee a replacement for a meal? Let me tell you that protein coffee, also known as ‘proffee,’ is an excellent way to curb your hunger from the moment you wake up until you have your first proper meal. Moreover, it makes your morning latte creamier without any overpowering aftertaste.The abundance of protein powder flavors available also makes protein coffee a delightful way to enhance your coffee experience with added nutrients, as highlighted by nutritionist Karin Evans, RDN.Protein coffee gained popularity initially due to the low-carb and keto diet trends. These dietary approaches prioritize protein and fats over carbohydrates to induce ketosis, a state where your body burns fat instead of carbs for energy, explains Christa Brown, RDN, a specialist in diabetes care and women’s health. Protein coffee is a smart option if you’re aiming to reduce carb-heavy meals, snacks, and beverages while upping your protein intake.Introducing the experts: Karin Evans, RDN, a nutritionist at Top Nutrition Coaching; Christa Brown, RDN, a nutritionist specializing in diabetes care and women’s health; Beth Linder-Moss, a certified sports nutritionist; Cara Carmichael, a personal trainer and nutritionist; Valerie Agyeman, RD, a dietitian and host of the women’s health podcast Flourish Heights.Ready to start sipping? Below, experts delve into the advantages of proffee, why it’s making waves in the health and fitness realm, how to make it yourself, and what to purchase if you prefer not to prepare it at home.First off, what exactly is protein coffee, or ‘proffee’?Protein coffee is simply adding protein powder or a ready-made shake to your coffee. “People who are busy or not hungry in the morning use it as a flavorful treat and a caffeine boost,” explains Beth Linder-Moss, a certified sports nutritionist. The best part is that it’s incredibly simple and efficient. “With just one scoop, you’re
Adding a scoop of protein powder to your coffee along with two eggs provides around 40 grams of protein, making it a great choice for breakfast, according to Carmichael. What are the advantages of protein coffee? Here are some key benefits:
1. Ideal pre-gym boost: Many clients use proffee as a pre-workout since it combines caffeine for energy and protein for muscle maintenance and tissue building, as stated by Linder-Moss. Opting for decaf coffee is also an option if you prefer protein without the caffeine kick.
2. Sustained energy levels: Increasing protein intake before exercising can help stabilize energy levels throughout the day, says Brown.
3. Enhanced flavor: Flavored protein powders can add tasty notes to your coffee without the extra calories and fat often found in flavored creamers, notes Carmichael. Brands like Dymatize offer easily blendable options, including a caffeinated version for an extra boost.
4. Anxiety reduction: Combining protein with coffee can alleviate anxiety and digestive discomfort caused by caffeine, according to Linder-Moss.
5. Weight management support: High-protein breakfasts can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent glucose spikes, aiding in weight management, says Nutrisense. Additionally, proffee can help boost metabolism and curb snacking, making it suitable for those with desk jobs, as per Carmichael.
Are there any drawbacks to protein coffee? Brown warns that the texture of your drink may change, becoming grittier or thicker based on the protein powder used. Additionally, protein powders containing sugar substitutes could lead to digestive issues, so it’s essential to read labels carefully.
When making protein coffee, ensure you’re mindful of your protein and caffeine intake to avoid overconsumption. Pregnant individuals should consult with their doctor before consuming protein coffee.
Experts recommend using a blender or frother to effectively mix protein powder into your coffee without any clumps. Linder-Moss prefers using a frother for its convenience and easy cleanup. Just mix your choice of milk with a scoop of protein powder (whey or vegan) until fluffy. On the other hand, Carmichael blends her protein powder with a bit of milk in a Nutribullet before adding it to her coffee. Make sure to use a blender bottle with a mixing ball to evenly distribute the powder. Experiment with the protein-to-coffee ratio to find your preferred taste. Protein coffee can be enjoyed hot or cold, but blending with hot coffee ensures a frothy texture, while adding to cold coffee makes for easier blending. Customize your drink by adjusting flavors, ratios, and temperatures. Consider adding a splash of milk for extra creaminess and protein. Pre-made protein coffee brands are available, but check the labels for additives and dairy content. Some recommended brands include Premier Nutrition Cafe Latte Protein Shake, Evolve Protein Shake, and Owyn Cold Brew Protein Shake. Super Coffee is also recommended for its natural ingredients and great taste. Explore different protein coffee options to personalize your drink.
