Drinking coffee mixed with protein powder: how to prepare it properly?

Adding protein powder to coffee is safe for healthy individuals. However, it's important to choose the right protein powder and coffee, and it shouldn't be considered a weight-loss drink or a complete meal replacement, especially for breakfast.

In principle, protein powders, such as whey, casein, soy protein, or pea protein, are still food, just in a concentrated form. Mixing protein powder with coffee is safe for healthy individuals, similar to mixing protein powder with water or milk, according to the health website Verywell Health (USA).

Proper preparation will prevent the protein powder from clumping in the coffee.

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However, there are two points to note: the coffee temperature and the target drinker. If the coffee is too hot, it can cause the powder, especially whey, to clump. The solution is to mix the powder with a little cool water or milk first, then gradually add the hot coffee.

Patients with chronic kidney disease, advanced liver disease, or those on a protein-restricted diet should consult their doctor before regularly consuming coffee mixed with protein powder.

Drinking coffee with added protein powder is considered a good way to increase protein intake throughout the day. The general recommendation for healthy adults is about 0.8g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. Athletes , older adults, or those looking to maintain muscle mass often need higher amounts. The ideal amount of protein to add to a cup of coffee is between 15 and 25 grams per serving.

This type of beverage blend is also great for use before or after workouts. Drinking it before a workout helps increase performance with caffeine. Drinking it after a workout helps increase alertness and focus. Meanwhile, protein provides essential amino acids for muscle recovery.

Who should be cautious when drinking coffee mixed with protein powder?

While convenient, protein powder mixed with coffee isn't suitable for everyone. Those with lactose intolerance or milk protein allergies may experience bloating, gas, and diarrhea when using whey or casein protein powders. Many protein powders contain significant amounts of sugar, artificial sweeteners, or flavorings. If consumed daily, the total amount of sugar and additives can be substantial and increase blood sugar levels in pre-diabetics or diabetics.

Furthermore, the coffee in this mixture still contains caffeine. Caffeine can cause insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and restlessness if consumed in large quantities or close to bedtime. Iron absorption is also affected if consumed close to an iron-rich meal.

If you want to mix protein powder with coffee, you need to choose the "cleanest" protein powder possible. That means one that is low in sugar, contains few artificial flavors, and has been tested and certified. If you don't like protein powder made from cow's milk, you can choose protein derived from peas, soybeans, or brown rice.

If prepared correctly, protein powder will not clump. First, mix 1 scoop of powder with 50-100 ml of cold water or milk, shaking to dissolve the powder. Then, slowly pour in hot coffee, stirring constantly, according to Verywell Health.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/uong-ca-phe-tron-bot-protein-pha-the-nao-cho-tot-185251211200759242.htm