Why Protein Coffee is the Perfect Morning Drink for Health Enthusiasts
- Protein coffee is a hot new trend that incorporates protein powder and coffee.
- Adding protein powder to your coffee creates the perfect blend of health benefits. These include increased energy, weight loss, and improved workout performance.
- Collagen and whey protein powder are two types of protein that you can add to your coffee. Learn how to avoid clumps with barista-approved tips.
Move over, whipped coffee. A new coffee trend in town is winning over any average Joe.
Protein coffee, or “proffee” as affectionately known, combines protein powder with coffee. Though it may sound like an odd combination, the benefits—weight loss, improved workout performance, increased energy—make it a match made in heaven.[1][2]
Here, we explore the benefits of this supercharged coffee and the best types of protein to add to coffee.
Why Add Protein to Your Coffee?
On their own, both protein and coffee are overflowing with health benefits. Protein is a macronutrient that performs crucial roles in the body. It helps cells grow, increases muscle mass and keeps you satiated.[3]
Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. The body needs 20 amino acids to function correctly. However, since the body can’t make the nine essential amino acids, those amino acids must be consumed in either diet or supplement form.
Coffee brings its own set of benefits to the mix. Coffee makes you feel more alert and energized and may even reduce the risk of health issues, such as Parkinson’s disease and heart disease.[4]
Mixing protein and coffee gives you the best of both worlds.
Nutritional Benefits of Protein Coffee
Everyone from fitness enthusiasts to health-conscious individuals are upgrading their cup of Joe. Here are some of the science-backed benefits that explain why:
- Protein coffee helps you reach your protein goals: Looking to make a dent in your protein goals early in the day? According to the recommended dietary allowance (RDA), healthy adults should consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.[5] The number can vary based on gender, age, body weight and activity level (learn how to find your ideal protein intake here). While protein-rich foods like eggs are healthy breakfast options, they don’t contain as much protein as most protein powders. Two large scrambled eggs have 12 grams of protein.[6] An average serving of protein powder contains 15 to 20 grams of protein.
- Protein coffee may aid with weight management: We already know coffee is good for you. But your daily creamer? Not so much. Most creamers contain high amounts of fat and sugar. Adding a splash of protein to your coffee is one way to ensure your calories are nutrient-dense. You can still sweeten your cup using flavored protein powder. You may also shed pounds by protein’s ability to keep you fuller for longer. Adding protein to your coffee can help you make smarter daily food choices.[7]
- Protein coffee may improve athletic performance: Combining protein and coffee before a workout may enhance performance. A meta-analysis found that consuming coffee an hour before exercise may boost muscle contractions and prevent fatigue.[8] Protein is synonymous with exercise. Several studies have found that consuming protein either before or after a workout can increase muscle mass.[9]
Types of Protein to Add to Coffee
Add protein powder to your favorite cup to kick it up. Here, we focus on why whey and collagen protein add a splash of benefits.
Collagen Protein: Benefits and How to Use It
Collagen protein is a natural protein choice for coffee. It makes the drink oh-so-creamy and pours out wellness benefits. As the body’s most abundant protein, collagen has been studied for doing wonders for the skin. Many studies have found that collagen may help improve elasticity and help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.[10] It may also help the joints by supporting joint function and comfort.[11]
Collagen protein easily dissolves in coffee. Additionally, most hot coffees are below the temperature needed to maintain collagen’s benefits.
Whey Protein: Benefits and How to Use It
Whey is a liquid byproduct created from milk during cheese production. Bodybuilders, athletes, and anyone looking to increase their protein intake can enjoy the benefits of whey.
Whey protein powder is the gold standard of protein powder for a reason. Each scoopful is incredibly nutrient-rich, containing all nine essential amino acids. It reigns supreme compared to other animal and plant-based protein sources. Studies have shown that whey protein is easily digested and absorbed by the body.[12]
You can mix whey protein into water, smoothies, baked goods and other nutritional supplements. However, as an animal-based protein source, it’s unsuitable for vegans. They must choose another plant-based protein source, such as soy, rice or hemp.
More From Bulletproof
How to Add Protein to Your Coffee
Follow these steps for a perfect cup of protein coffee every time.
Collagen protein coffee
- Brew a cup of coffee.
- Grab a scoop of collagen protein.
- Add the collagen protein powder to your coffee and let it dissolve.
Protein coffee
Use these steps to add whey protein to your coffee. If you’re adding it to cold coffee, add a scoop and stir as you would with cold water. But since hot coffee can cause a gritty texture or clumps, these barista-approved steps can help.
- Brew your hot coffee like usual.
- Mix a scoop of protein powder with a little bit of warm water.
- Add the protein-water mixture to your hot coffee and stir until fully dissolved.
Another option for whey protein that eliminates clumps is to blend it with water or some other liquid (such as almond milk) before adding it to your coffee.
Best Protein Coffee Recipes
Brew these protein coffee recipes just as you like: jam-packed with flavor and health benefits.
Bulletproof Coffee
Bulletproof coffee is a popular drink choice for those on low-carb diets, such as keto. You only need high-quality coffee, grass-fed butter, MCT oil and protein powder. The high-fat ingredients produce ketones and provide energy, while the protein powder keeps you satiated.
Caramel Coffee
Is your favorite coffee order an iced caramel latte? You don’t have to miss out just because you’re incorporating protein! This iced caramel protein coffee incorporates caramel protein powder to give the coffee that sweet taste. You can also use liquid sweeteners.
Protein coffee is a delicious and convenient way to combine two wellness staples.
Several reasons to switch include increased protein consumption, supporting weight management and promoting workout performance.
Collagen and whey protein are solid protein options to add to coffee. Collagen protein easily dissolves into liquids. Whey protein requires a few extra steps, but its benefits compensate for it.
For goodness with every sip, choose a protein powder at least 15 to 20 grams per serving.
Sign up for early access to sales, product launches, the latest Bulletproof news and more!