A health editor investigates the truth behind coffee creamer's potential health risks.
This content includes information from experts in their field and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions as it pertains to all aspects of your daily life. We constantly strive to provide you with the best information possible.As a health editor, I've long considered coffee creamer my one allowable vice. I love it, really. I can't function without it, and I equally love sweets.
So, since that fateful day 20 years ago when I had my first cup of coffee (alas, I needed a boost before taking my SATs), I've been addicted to coffee creamer. From simple French vanilla to fun seasonal flavors like peppermint mocha and the-themed Thai iced coffee flavor currently in my fridge, I can't get enough. But have I been downplaying this? Is coffee creamer really bad for you? To find out, I spoke to several doctors—and they all said the same thing.Many doctors were concerned with coffee creamers' high trans fat content due to hydrogenated oils. However, due to current dietary guidelines, most food manufacturers have stopped using hydrogenated oils. The Coffee-Mate creamer I have in my fridge has 0 grams of trans fats, and it's made with high-oleic vegetable oil, a trans-fat-free oil that some studies suggest may even be heart-healthy.In fact, I saw no trans fat in any of the other coffee creamer brands I looked at, including International Delight, 365 by Whole Foods, Starbucks, and Dunkin'. These other brands did contain palm oil or milk and cream, which means they contain between 0.5 and 1 gram of saturated fat per one-tablespoon serving.However, the AHA recommends consuming no more than 13 grams of saturated fat per day. So, even if you use two tablespoons of coffee creamer, is it so bad? To put it in perspective, two tablespoons of half-and-half has 2 grams of saturated fat.At first, I looked at my coffee creamer and thought, 'Five grams of sugar, not bad!' In the U.K., notes that added sugars 'contribute to weight gain, make your body less responsive to insulin, and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.' 'It's suggested to consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day, and just one tablespoon of creamer may provide 5 grams of added sugar,' contextualizes dietitian. 'If using two servings or more per cup, that could mean reaching 40-50 percent of daily added sugar just in your coffee.''To be specific on this, ingredients like mono- and diglycerides or sodium caseinate are highly processed,' Gervacio notes of coffee creamers. Yup, my Coffee-Mate creamer contains mono- and diglycerides, common emulsifiers. International Delight creamer does, too, along with sodium caseinate, another emulsifier and thickening agent.that was created by researchers at Mass General Brigham to publicize 'the degree of processing of food items.' It catalogs more than 50,000 common grocery items and ranks them based on how processed they are.Overall, doctors recommend avoiding most traditional coffee creamers and instead suggest unsweetened plant-based options made from almond, soy, or oat milk. 'Opting for a coffee creamer that has less sugar and saturated fat can benefit your blood sugar first thing in the morning, giving you more stable energy throughout the day, in addition to supporting your overall metabolic health,' states: 'They are USDA Certified Organic, have only 3 grams of sugar per serving and no saturated fat, dairy, gums, oils or artificial flavors making them a gut-friendly and metabolically healthy option.' Jones, who is unaffiliated with the brand, says this is her favorite option, too.If you're looking for something creamy to add to your coffee, Gervacio and Ahmad both recommend a bit of natural coconut milk. 'Make it flavorful by adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or unsweetened cocoa powder,' Gervacio suggests. 'Whole milk and half and half in moderation can also do wonders as provide natural fats devoid of overly processed ingredients,' adds Chichak. 'For those who take their coffee sweeter, a sprinkle of natural sweeteners such as honey or pure maple syrup serves as the optimal alternative.'We offer the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you're taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.
HEALTH COFFEE CREAMER NUTRITION SUGAR SATURATED FAT DIABETES PLANT-BASED OPTIONS HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Pedicure Surprise: Coffee Creamer Added to Foot BathTikTok user Haley Dorio shared a video of her pedicure experience where the nail technician added coffee creamer to the foot bath.
Read more »
Kara Water's New Coffee Pod Brews Coffee Using Air-to-Water TechKara Water's latest innovation, the Kara Pod, is a coffee brewer that harnesses air-to-water technology to eliminate the need for water refills. The device extracts humidity from the air, converting it into drinking water for brewing. This eliminates frequent water refills, making it a convenient and sustainable solution for coffee lovers.
Read more »
Morning coffee may protect the heart better than all-day coffee drinkingPeople who drink coffee in the morning have a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and a lower overall mortality risk compared to all-day coffee drinkers, according to new research.
Read more »
Is Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach Bad for You?Discover the potential downsides of enjoying your morning coffee before breakfast and learn what to do if it causes you discomfort.
Read more »
Is It Bad To Drink Coffee On An Empty Stomach?Experts discuss whether having caffeine first thing in the morning without food is actually harmful to your health.
Read more »
The one coffee mistake that thousands admit they are makingCan a good cup of coffee turn a bad day around?
Read more »