What are the effects on your body of consuming coffee with milk?
Coffee with milk is one of the most popular beverages in many cultures, especially at the start of the day. Its smooth flavor and creamy texture make it a preferred choice over coffee alone. But beyond its pleasant taste, have you ever wondered what effects this combination has on our bodies? The mix of caffeine and milk proteins generates different reactions in the body that can be both beneficial and detrimental, depending on the frequency and quantity consumed.
What happens when we mix coffee with milk?Coffee contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that acts on the central nervous system, improving alertness, concentration, and physical performance. On the other hand, Milk provides proteins, fats, calcium and essential vitamins such as B12 and D. When combined, these two ingredients not only modify the flavor and texture of the beverage, but also interact at the metabolic level.
READ: Foods you SHOULD eat before bedOne of the most common effects is that milk tends to soften the effect of caffeine. This can be helpful for those sensitive to the stimulating effects of coffee, as adding milk slows the absorption of caffeine into the body. For this reason, many people prefer coffee with milk to black coffee: it provides energy, but with a more moderate effect.
Positive effects of coffee with milk on the bodyImproved cognitive performance: Caffeine, in moderate doses, can increase attention, short-term memory, and reaction time. Combined with milk, this effect becomes more balanced and less aggressive.
- Source of essential nutrients: Adding milk enriches the beverage with high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamins such as B2 (riboflavin), which are essential for energy-yielding metabolism and bone health.
- Feeling full: Thanks to the proteins and fats in milk, coffee with milk can provide a greater feeling of fullness, making it a suitable option for breakfast or a light snack.
- Reducing heartburn: For those who experience stomach discomfort with black coffee, adding milk can be beneficial, as it helps neutralize some of the beverage's natural acidity.
Although coffee with milk can be a pleasant and nutritious beverage, excessive consumption or consumption at inappropriate times could lead to certain unwanted effects:
- Interference in the absorption of some nutrients: The calcium present in milk can reduce iron absorption if consumed in large quantities or with foods rich in this mineral.
- Digestive problems in people with lactose intolerance: Those with lactose intolerance may experience bloating, gas, or stomach upset when consuming traditional coffee with milk.
- Sleep disturbance: Although milk softens the impact of caffeine, consuming this beverage in the afternoon or evening could affect sleep quality in sensitive individuals.
- Increased calories: Unlike coffee alone, coffee with milk contains more calories, especially if sugar, cream, or whole milk is added, which can affect weight control if consumed in excess.
To reap the benefits of coffee with milk, it's best to consume it early in the day, preferably during or after breakfast. Using low-fat milk or plant-based milks (such as oat or almond milk) can be a healthy alternative for those looking to reduce calories or avoid animal products.
READ: Why shouldn't we eat bananas on an empty stomach?In addition, it is recommended moderate the amount of added sugar to avoid an unnecessary increase in calories and prevent imbalances in glucose levels.
Coffee with milk, more than just a drink, It is a combination that offers remarkable effects on the body and mind. If consumed in moderation and at the right time, it can be an excellent way to start the day with energy, providing essential nutrients without the side effects of plain coffee. As with everything, the key lies in balance and understanding how our body reacts to certain foods and beverages.
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