UK coffee lovers consume an estimated 100 million cups every day – an estimate suggests this hot drink could reduce risk for heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s and cancer. Unfortunately, adding milk could negate these health benefits as experts caution it can taint its flavour.

Researchers behind a 2023 study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, discovered that milk has an uncanny affinity for reacting with antioxidants found in coffee beans to boost their anti-inflammatory properties. Milk contains proteins which bind polyphenols found in coffee beans creating polyphenol adducts with the capacity to reduce inflammation within immune cells.

Consumed in moderation, two to three cups of coffee daily may help protect against cardiovascular and liver diseases as well as boost energy levels and aid weight loss by increasing fat burning and muscle protein synthesis. But be wary: A diet high in sugar and dairy may have the opposite effect, suppressing lipolysis (the breakdown of stored body fat into free fatty acids for oxidation), decreasing thermogenesis (heat production), and leading to an insulin surge.

Nutritionist and health coach Barbie Boules suggests that black coffee is fat- and calorie-free and therefore suitable during a fast. But adding sweet flavors, syrups, milk or sugar may increase its caloric intake, rendering it off limits for this particular fast.

Are Coffee Drinks Healthier With Milk

Traditionalists might frown upon mixing their cup with milk, but many people enjoy drinking coffee this way as it helps balance out the bitterness of caffeine and enhance its taste. Furthermore, milk is known to aid digestion while helping lower acidity of beverages to help ease heartburn or acid reflux symptoms.

Are You Searching for Non-Dairy Alternatives? There is an ever-increasing selection of non-dairy milk alternatives, from almond, coconut and soya milks, through to cashew and hazelnut varieties available at supermarkets such as Elmhurst Milked Cashews Pecans Walnuts & Hazelnuts as a delicious milk alternative that is free from artificial sweeteners – making it perfect to whip up for your morning cup of joe!