Should You Cut Caffeine to Lose Weight?

When trying to lose weight, some things are obvious: Eat less, exercise more, choose more fruits and vegetables. But some things are not so obvious. One of those is caffeine.

Many Americans have caffeine at some point during the day. Whether it is in the morning after they wake up, or in the afternoon to avoid a late-day slump, caffeine is as much a “pick me up” as it is a habit. But if you are trying to lose weight, should you avoid it altogether?

First, it’s good to look at how you are getting caffeine. Are drinking it as coffee or tea? What are you putting in your cup?

Sweetening a cup of coffee with sugar, or cream can add as much as 250 extra calories. Simply switching to low-fat or skim milk, non-fat dairy creamer, and a non-caloric sweetener can cut calories and fat.

Caffeine itself can also have negative effects on the body.

For diabetics, caffeine can interfere with the way the body takes in insulin and metabolizes glucose. This can mean weight gain as well as long-term negative effects.

And, while caffeine has an energy effect, it doesn’t last long. When it stops working, it can leave you tired and looking for quick ways to boost energy. Unfortunately, this can lead to overeating, or eating foods high in sugar and fat.

On a more positive note, caffeine can help your exercise performance if it’s consumed before a workout. That’s because it promotes fat metabolism and can increase the intensity and duration of exercise because it increases your energy.

There are pros and cons to caffeine. If you choose to use caffeine, have it in moderation. Make healthy choices when adding to your coffee and drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids throughout the day.

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