Registered dietitians debunk these 3 myths about coffee.

Registered dietitians debunk these 3 myths about coffee.
Registered dietitians debunk these 3 myths about coffee.

In 2022, data from the National Coffee Association revealed that two-thirds of Americans consume coffee daily.

Although widely consumed, coffee is surrounded by numerous myths, making it challenging to distinguish fact from fiction.

There are 52 million TikTok posts discussing the advantages and disadvantages of morning coffee consumption.

Registered dietitians Maddie Pasquariello and Roxana Ehsani shared with us the most common coffee myths they encounter.

3 coffee myths, debunked by dietitians

Myth #1: "Coffee is bad for you"

In the nutrition world, it is widely agreed that coffee is beneficial for our health, according to Pasquariello.

If you stick to the recommended daily caffeine intake of 400 milligrams or less, or about four cups of coffee, you don't need to worry, as it may even have positive effects on you.

Polyphenols, antioxidants found in coffee, have been shown to prevent chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease.

Ehsani claims that coffee can enhance alertness, energy, productivity, and athletic performance due to its natural stimulant properties.

"Be cautious of adding unhealthy elements such as creamers, sugars, syrups, and honey to your drink."

Myth #2: "It's not advisable to consume coffee initially upon waking up."

Pasquariello and Ehsani, dietitians, suggest their clients consume coffee before noon to avoid the peak effects of caffeine, which can last up to six hours and negatively impact sleep.

Pasquariello suggests that instead of reaching for another cup of coffee at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., or 4 p.m., people should grab a snack that's high in fiber, healthy fats, or protein for an energy boost.

Pasquariello suggests that while it's okay to have coffee first thing in the morning, those with acid reflux should drink water and eat a bit of food beforehand.

According to Pasquariello, clients have reported experiencing jitteriness and stomach upset after consuming coffee first thing in the morning.

Ehsani advises people not to forget to drink water before or with coffee.

Fact #3: "More than 2 cups of coffee a day is not harmful for most people."

According to CNBC Make It, Deepak Chopra consumes two to three cups of coffee before noon. While this may seem excessive to some, Pasquariello and Ehsani argue that it falls within a healthy range.

Ehsani advises that consuming two to three cups of caffeine before noon is safe, as long as the total amount of caffeine does not exceed 400 milligrams, which is found in various beverages such as sodas, teas, energy drinks, and chocolate.

Dietitians often recommend consuming food and water prior to your daily cold brew or latte "as caffeine can suppress appetite."

Pasquariello advises that when combining a specific amount in a short time frame, it's crucial to be aware of your experiences and ensure that you're not replacing meals with coffee. Additionally, pay close attention to how it affects your appetite.

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