How four cups of coffee a day could unlock your weight loss potential
Coffee is not a magical weight loss brew; it alone won't lead to weight loss without physical activity and a balanced diet. Yet, recent research has illustrated that it can significantly aid the weight loss journey. Experts have provided concrete figures to support this.
5 May 2024 16:24
How many cups of coffee must you drink daily to aid weight loss? Harvard scientists have answered this intriguing question. "The Nutrition Twins," dietitians, have observed similar effects, attributing specific properties to coffee that support weight loss.
How much coffee should you drink daily to lose weight?
Simply drinking coffee alone isn't sufficient for losing weight, but studies highlight that coffee has properties that aid the weight loss process. This is backed by a Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study involving 126 overweight participants with insulin resistance. The results revealed that individuals who consumed four cups of black coffee daily over 24 weeks saw a reduction in their fat tissue by around 4%.
The European Food Safety Authority's recommendations state that the daily safe caffeine limit is 400 mg. This equates to approximately four cups of coffee. However, it's crucial to note that caffeine sensitivity varies among individuals, and 400 mg might be excessive for some. Consumption should be tailored to personal preferences and health conditions.
How does coffee facilitate weight loss?
The consumption of between two to five servings of coffee daily (keeping caffeine intake between 200 mg and 400 mg) can promote weight loss, according to dietitians Tammy Lakatos Shames and Lyssie Lakatos, also known as "The Nutrition Twins", in a New York Post interview.
"Coffee contains caffeine, which produces a thermogenic effect and can accelerate metabolism, aiding in burning more calories. Some studies have demonstrated its ability to help decrease BMI, body weight, and fat tissue. Coffee can also curb appetite and diminish hunger sensations," - the American newspaper cited the experts.
In addition, the dietitians pointed out other research indicating that drinking coffee up to four hours before a meal can reduce calorie intake. Further, they mentioned that coffee also contains chlorogenic acid, which boosts fat oxidation and may slow down carbohydrate absorption. However, they cautioned that adding cream, whole milk, or sugar to coffee could negate the calories burned through coffee consumption.
