“Don’t let anyone tell you that fairy tales aren’t real,” is a popular internet meme. “I drink a magic potion made from magic beans every day and it brings me back to life!”
The health benefits of coffee
Of course, that magic potion is coffee. But its ability to cheer you up isn’t magic – neither are the other health benefits of coffee. Corresponding John Hopkins Medicine, “Recent studies have found that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from some of the leading causes of death in women: coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, and kidney disease.” Research also shows that drinking coffee can fight off colon cancer, Parkinson’s, heart failure, Alzheimer’s, and strokes.
Although you can link the health benefits of coffee to caffeine, science has identified hundreds of other substances – anti-inflammatory flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals – that protect against disease, says FoodInsight.org, a website created by nutrition and food safety experts from the International Food Information Council.
Does coffee promote metabolism and help you lose weight?
Coffee contains caffeine, which can help you lose body fat. Yes, you heard right. According to research by Harvard TH Chan School of Public HealthIt has been shown that consuming four cups of coffee a day reduces body fat by about four percent. The study was originally conducted to see if coffee could reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. The researchers explain: “Coffee did not affect the participants’ sensitivity to insulin – the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. The study came up with an unexpected finding: Coffee was associated with a modest loss of body fat. ”Scientists believe that the fat loss was caused by the caffeine in coffee, which increases the metabolism of the study participants, causing them to burn more calories.
Corresponding ScienceDaily, “Women who drink two or three cups of coffee a day have lower total body and belly fat than those who drink less, according to a new study published in the Journal of Nutrition.”
Healthline states that caffeine has been shown to increase resting metabolic rate by increasing fat loss. “One study showed that caffeine increased fat burning in lean people by up to 29%, while the increase in obese people was only about 10%,” says Health line. In addition, there is an expert at Mayo Clinic attributes coffee to potentially decreasing hunger and appetite for short periods of time.
Does coffee increase metabolism? From research it definitely seems possible. While it won’t magically help you shed pounds, coffee can still be included in your healthy diet in moderation. (How much is too much? Click here! >Just speak to your doctor before adding coffee and other caffeinated drinks to your routine to make sure it is safe for you.
10 healthy coffee recipes
Black coffee is a free meal on the Nutrisystem program and fat-free milk jug is an extra. If you like your coffee sweet, stick with a natural, calorie-free sweetener like stevia for your cup of joe. You can also try these delicious coffee recipes to add some more of this metabolism-boosting drink to your diet:
1. Caramel Coffee Protein Shake>
Our members and followers love to get creative with coffee! This user generated recipe, submitted by Leaf visitor Judy, is one of our favorites. Get the most of your favorite coffee shop drink (with far fewer calories) with this delicious drink. It combines cold coffee with Nutrisystem Vanilla Protein Shake Mix, sugar-free caramel syrup and ice cream. Puree in your blender for a perfect start to the day! This morning protein shake contains just 142 calories and counts as a PowerFuel and an extra on the Nutrisystem plan. Click here for the full recipe! >
2. Coffee and balsamic marinade>
Did you know that coffee works as a meat tenderizer? It’s great for lean meats like flank steak, which can be tough. Combined with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, whole grain mustard and chopped garlic, it gives the meat a unique, rich and hearty taste. The recipe makes four servings and each has only 48 calories. It counts as two extras on Nutrisystem. Click here for the full recipe! >
3. Coffee and cocoa power smoothie in the morning>
We have another delicious morning drink to start the day! Our Morning Coffee Cacao Power Smoothie can be enjoyed as a delicious breakfast or morning snack. This delicious smoothie has a few surprises in store: a medium frozen banana, frozen cauliflower, and whey protein. A garnish made from cocoa nibs gives it an extra chocolaty taste. This great morning breakfast is only 199 calories and counts as a SmartCarb, a PowerFuel, an Extra and a Half Vegetable on Nutrisystem. Click here for the full recipe! >
4. Mocha Coffee Overnight Oatmeal>
The best part about this energizing and calming breakfast is that you cook it the night before and keep it in a mason jar in the refrigerator. Cold in the morning or warm up for a quick and easy breakfast. It’s a delicious mix of dry oats, brewed coffee, non-fat Greek yogurt, unsweetened cocoa, sliced almonds, and chocolate chips. It gives you the motivation you need to jump out of bed. One serving has only 217 calories and counts as a SmartCarb, a PowerFuel and an extra Food system. Click here for the full recipe! >
5. Iced coffee on a stick>
This is the cutest, easiest pick-me-up you’ve ever had. Only three ingredients – coffee, fat-free natural yogurt and sweetener – are filled with an ice lolly in an ice cube tray. Throw it in the freezer overnight and a sweet treat will be waiting for you in the morning! The recipe makes four popsicles, each containing 33 calories. You count on Nutrisystem as an extra. Click here for the full recipe! >
6. 3-ingredient chocolate and coffee mousse>
Cool off and fuel your day with a creamy, dreamy dessert. With just three simple ingredients and a few simple steps, you can dig your spoon into a light and airy chocolate coffee mousse that’s rich, decadent, and delicious. This chocolaty Java treat contains just 88 calories per serving. If you’re on the Nutrisystem weight loss plan, count it as all three perks for the day. Click here for the full recipe! >
7. Skinny Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew>
Keep up with your weight loss and enjoy the flavors of fall with this Skinny Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Recipe! It is perfectly portioned, low in calories and dispenses with the added sugar that normally accompanies these delicious drinks in cafés. Every 107 calorie drink can be counted as half of a PowerFuel and two extras on Nutrisystem. Click here for the full recipe! >
8. Sweet cinnamon latte>
This Sweet Cinnamon Latte is super easy to prepare. All you need is low-fat milk, Truvia, ground cinnamon, and of course, coffee. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up or a lunch snack, this cute mug of joe will give you the energy you need. One serving has only 126 calories. It counts as a PowerFuel and an extra on Nutrisystem. Click here for the full recipe! >
9. Iced Mocha Latte>
Even if you’ve never seen yourself as a seasoned barista, our Iced Mocha Latte is ready faster than a barista can call out that your order is ready. Plus, your wallet will feel a little heavier! This delicious drink provides the necessary caffeine kick with the perfect portion of chocolate. Click here for the full recipe! >
10. Vanilla Latte Protein Smoothie>
Turn your morning coffee into your morning meal with this latte recipe! This smart sip is packed with protein, fiber, and probiotics for a nutritious breakfast that will energize your day. Mix this six-ingredient shake and enjoy a refreshing, energizing drink that will fit into your weight loss diet. It has only 176 calories and counts as a PowerFuel and an extra on Nutrisystem. Click here for the full recipe! >
