Black coffee is particularly healthy, according to research. Consumers should avoid adding milk. The reasons vary.
Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world and may even prolong life, according to a long-term study by the Harvard School of Public Health. Many people drink it with milk to soften the flavor and reduce bitterness. However, there are good reasons to avoid this addition.
Never drink coffee with milk
Black coffee has numerous health benefits that can be lost when milk is added. One of the most important is its high antioxidant content, which helps prevent disease. These are especially effective when coffee is drunk in its pure form, as they are then not bound to milk.
Studies show that milk reduces the antioxidant activity of coffee. It also increases calories, which may be relevant for people on a diet.
Scientific studies also show that black coffee stimulates autophagy, a process in which cells break down and recycle old or damaged components. This may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
Black coffee has positive effects on the heart and blood circulation
Black coffee also has positive effects on cardiovascular health. Regular consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease. Liver health is also beneficial: coffee can reduce the risk of liver disease.
Another benefit is weight loss support. Black coffee can accelerate fat burning and maintain a stable weight – provided it is consumed without additives such as milk and sugar. However, milk can mitigate this effect because it reduces the bioavailability of chlorogenic acids in the body.
Coffee with milk is not forbidden: the additive may disrupt the diet
Adding milk to coffee is not illegal, but it can reduce its health benefits by interfering with the absorption of antioxidants. As an alternative, coffee drinkers can turn to a secret ingredient that acts as a health booster.
However, the type of milk plays a role: skim milk or its plant-based counterparts are likely to have fewer negative effects than whole milk. Adding sugar or sweeteners can also almost completely negate the health benefits of coffee. If food without additives becomes completely unpalatable, consumers should not throw it away. Coffee acts as a miracle cure in the home and can be a problem-solver.
