Are you curious about the health benefits of coffee creamer? Do you worry that it might be causing inflammation in your body?
If so, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn all you need to know about coffee creamer and how it affects your health.
What is coffee creamer?
Coffee creamer is an additive to coffee that helps create a creamy texture and sweeter flavor. It is typically made from water, sugar, and thickening agents such as corn syrup solids, hydrogenated oils, or sodium caseinate.
Does coffee creamer cause inflammation?
It is no secret that coffee creamer is not the healthiest of options. It is packed with unhealthy ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated oils, and trans-fats, all known triggers for inflammation.
Inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a perceived threat and releases various hormones and chemicals to help protect itself. Unfortunately, this response can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating, swelling, and joint pain.
The unhealthy ingredients in coffee creamers
Many store-bought creamers contain additives such as dipotassium phosphate and carrageenan, which can harm human health and cause bloating, inflammation, and digestive issues.
Research has also found that regular consumption of store-bought coffee creamers can cause an increase in C-reactive protein (CRP), a biomarker for chronic inflammation.
Therefore, if you want to reduce inflammation, it is best to avoid store-bought coffee cream altogether or opt for plant-based alternatives whenever possible. Here are some of the unhealthy ingredients found in coffee creamers.
Artificial sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, and erythritol, are commonly used to lighten and sweeten coffee. Many flavored creamers are high in added sugar, sometimes containing up to five grams per tablespoon.
However, these ingredients are high in calories, fat, and carbohydrates and can be inflammatory.
Studies have shown that regular consumption of artificial sweeteners can lead to weight gain and can hurt the gut microbiome.
These sweeteners should be avoided if you’re looking for a healthier coffee creamer option.
Hydrogenated oils
Hydrogenated oils, such as vegetable or palm oil, are commonly used in store-bought coffee creamers. While hydrogenated oils can make a liquid taste creamy, they contain trans fats, known to increase LDL cholesterol levels and inflammation in the body.
This can increase the risk of heart disease, obesity, and metabolic disorder. Therefore, it is best to avoid foods containing hydrogenated oils when possible.
Trans fats
Trans fats are often found in store-bought coffee creamer products. They are created by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils, a process called hydrogenation.
Trans fats increase ‘bad’ cholesterol and lower ‘good’ cholesterol, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Too much trans fat in your diet increases the risk of inflammation, so it’s important to be aware of coffee creamer’s unhealthy ingredients and avoid them.
Flavors and colorings
Artificial flavors are often added to mimic the flavors of natural ingredients, while colorings are used to make the creamer look more appetizing.
These additives may be linked to inflammation. In addition, these additives do not provide any health benefits and may cause adverse reactions in some people. It’s important to read labels carefully and avoid creamers with artificial ingredients if you’re concerned about inflammation.
Plant-based creamers as alternatives to store-bought creamers
Plant-based creamers like almond, coconut, or soy milk offer a healthier alternative to traditional coffee creamer. These non-dairy creamers can help reduce inflammation and bloating, as they are free from the unhealthy fats and artificial sweeteners found in some store-bought creamers.
Plant-based creamers are also a great source of calcium, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, they are often fortified with additional vitamins and minerals that may help reduce inflammation. You can reduce inflammation and enjoy your morning cup of joe without guilt by opting for a plant-based creamer instead of a traditional coffee creamer.
Conclusion
Coffee creamer can have an impact on inflammation levels in the body. Store-bought coffee creamers should be avoided due to their unhealthy ingredients, including artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated oils, and trans-fats.
However, plant-based creamers are a healthier alternative as they are rich in antioxidants, have been linked to reduced inflammation, and can provide several other health benefits. Ultimately, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients in your coffee creamer and make sure that you are choosing one that is best for your health.
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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
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