Sugar in Coffee and Tea – How much to put and what are the alternatives?

Starting the day with a cup of strong coffee is a good option to cheer up in a matter of minutes, and the pleasant taste of sugar will only prolong the pleasure of the drink. However, it is extremely important to know what sugar you are putting in your coffee and in what quantity. As a rule, we add refined sugar to coffee – a processed version of the natural sugar found in foods high in carbohydrates (fruits, grains, vegetables, milk). Unlike natural sugar, refined sugar is not so beneficial for our body. 

The harmful effects of sugar

1. High blood sugar

Sugar is absorbed into the blood. This leads to a sharp rise in blood sugar, which provides a short-term burst of energy that is accompanied by a sharp drop in sugar levels. Such jumps are dangerous for people with confirmed diabetes and may even lead to pre-diabetes in the future. 

2. weight gain

Recently, more and more people suffer from obesity, which is often associated with excessive sugar consumption. 

3. Caries

Every year, scientists confirm that sweetened beverages, including coffee, cause tooth decay.

4. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease

For a person who needs to consume at least 2,000 calories per day, the amount of added sugar should be limited to 12 tablespoons (50 grams).

5. What to replace sugar with

For a person who needs to consume at least 2,000 calories per day, the amount of added sugar should be limited to 12 tablespoons (50 grams).

6. Stevia

Stevia leaves are obtained from a natural plant, so its benefits are many times different from the meager benefits of refined sugar. Among other things, unlike regular sugar, stevia is not addictive because it does not cause a rise in blood sugar.

7. Cream

The most ordinary cream has every chance to become a worthy substitute for sugar in a cup of coffee. Dairy products, when tasted, have a delicate sweet taste, although apparently not as pronounced as sugar. 

8. Oat milk

According to the culinary specialist, oat milk can easily be used as an alternative to sugar. It is this, unlike soy, that has a creamy consistency and a sweet taste. Gradually switching from refined sugar to oat milk can also help kick your carb addiction so you don’t suddenly give up sugar and go back.