Should You Be Adding Protein Powder To Your Morning Coffee?
Mixing protein powder and coffee can seem like a match made in heaven — it adds flavor, gives you an energy boost, and offers a good source of protein. Depending on your lifestyle and what your health goals are, adding protein to your morning cup of coffee may be just the thing for you. For instance, if you struggle to get enough protein in your diet, supplementing your coffee with a powder can help.
According to a 2017 study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, adults need 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. Most protein powders average about 20 grams of protein per serving (via WebMD). This can be especially helpful for vegans and vegetarians who may need additional protein sources to add to their diets.
Additionally, getting protein earlier in the day can help you stay fuller longer. A 2019 study in the Clinical Nutrition Experimental journal looked at the effects of a high protein breakfast. They found that those who ate a morning meal with 51% of the calories coming from protein had a reduced appetite due to better satiety hormone regulation. For those who tend to pass on breakfast or eat carb-heavy in the mornings, adding protein to their coffee can help curb hunger.
How to choose protein powder for your coffee
Whether you're frothing, stirring, or blending, a quality protein powder is key to success when it comes to protein coffee. Because different powders have different tastes and textures, it may take a little trial and error to find the one that doesn't leave you with a clumpy beverage and a bad aftertaste. For the creamiest drink, it can help to use a blender as this will help ensure the smoothest texture possible (via Eat This, Not That). Don't forget to remove the feeder cap to ensure steam can escape properly when blending hot coffee.
Additional ways to vet out great protein powders are to read the ingredients list. Cleveland Clinic suggests looking for those that don't have additives, gums, or artificial sweeteners. Protein powders often come in various flavors like vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, and caramel, to name a few. If you don't like how flavored mixes taste, you can also find unflavored protein powder.