For millions of people around the world, coffee is no longer just a beloved daily beverage, but has become a fixed ritual that begins in the morning, helps regain energy during long working hours, and becomes a moment of enjoyment that adds a special flavor to break times. However, many do not realize that a typical cup of coffee can sometimes pose unexpected health risks.
In her article on Verywell Health, certified nutritionist Lauren Manoff says that choosing unhealthy types of coffee has become easier today, "due to the abundance of flavors, sweeteners, and additives, some of which are promoted as healthy"; but if you don't prefer black coffee, you can find other ways to make your coffee healthier without sacrificing flavor, by avoiding the following ideas:
Adding oat milk
"In its recent report on adding milk alternatives to 'latte' drinks, the British newspaper The Independent said: 'One of the popular milk substitutes may be more harmful to your health than you think.' For example, oat milk has long been marketed as a healthy drink, rich in fiber, calcium, and vitamin D 'supporting bone health'."
However, nutritionists view oat milk differently; speaking to Parade magazine, certified dietitian Melissa Rifkin pointed out that "oat milk contains a higher amount of carbohydrates, sugars, and added oils compared to other plant-based milks, including almond milk."
She clarified that "while most oat milk beverages provide some fiber, they are low in protein and fat; both are important for stabilizing blood sugar levels and feeling full."
Certified dietitian Nor Zibde also confirmed to the same magazine that "oat milk may lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels when consumed in the morning, due to its richness in carbohydrates, which may make us feel tired all the time and crave sugar continuously"; but this does not apply to regular cow's milk "which contains protein and fats that balance its natural sugar content."
Excessive use of coffee creamers
While cream improves the flavor, adds sweetness, and cools down the hot cup of coffee, it may make your coffee less healthy; for example, "just two tablespoons of vanilla flavored coffee creamer add 60 calories, two grams of fat, and 10 grams of sugar to your beverage" according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
Excessive use of sugar and artificial sweeteners
Despite improving the flavor and sweetness of the coffee, three major studies in the United States published in March 2025, warned against excessive addition of sugar and artificial sweeteners loaded with unwanted calories. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, "two tablespoons of common vanilla syrup contain 80 calories and 20 grams of added sugar." Instead, "it is advised to reduce the usual amount of sweeteners by half, and add some ground cinnamon to improve the flavor."
Choosing poor quality coffee
Experts never tire of emphasizing the importance of ensuring the quality of your coffee and its source, as contamination with mold, fungal toxins, heavy metals, toxic pesticides, and chemical products formed during roasting are "some of the most concerning hidden problems in conventional coffee," according to the "Green Living Tribe" website.
A review published in 2022 found that many traditionally grown, low-quality coffee beans "are treated with insecticides and synthetic chemicals that may remain in your cup and may contribute to long-term health problems."
Therefore, says Brian Abernathy, a certified roasting expert in Florida, to the "HuffPost": Coffee enthusiasts should choose freshly roasted premium-grade beans, "to ensure the best coffee," regardless of their preferred brewing method.
Excessive coffee drinking at inappropriate times
Coffee's caffeine content is a natural stimulant designed to increase alertness, focus, and temporarily boost energy; however, if you are one of those who habitually drink coffee throughout the day, you may notice its continuing effects on your mood and sleep pattern; as consuming large amounts of coffee can make you feel stressed, anxious, or stressed because caffeine "may stay in your body for about 6 to 14 hours after you stop drinking it."
Neglecting natural flavor enhancers
Lauren Manoff points out that simple ingredients available in the kitchen, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cocoa powder, or vanilla extract, can add a warm, distinctive flavor to coffee without the need for sugars or synthetic ingredients. And according to research published in 2019, the benefits of these natural additives not only improve taste but also provide compounds that are anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory.
Relying on ready-made coffee
Manoff explains that packaged coffee beverages or those prepared to order in cafes may seem like a quick and convenient option, but they often contain high amounts of calories, unhealthy fats, and sugars resulting from additives and flavorings. In some cases, a large cup of specialty coffee may contain more calories than a full meal. In contrast, preparing coffee at home allows greater control over its ingredients and quality.
Using plastic capsules
Preparing coffee using plastic capsules may seem convenient, but it may involve "hidden health risks," according to Manoff. When exposed to hot water, some types of plastic can release chemicals into the coffee "linked to hormonal disorders and other health issues, with frequent consumption."
Company president Leo Yuva, a coffee roasting company in Colorado adds: Coffee capsules are the most convenient option for offices or those in a hurry to prepare coffee, but they "are of lower quality than manual brewing methods."
Neglecting water intake
Although coffee is mostly made up of water, this does not mean relying on it as a main source of hydration, as water is essential for overall health and supports many vital bodily functions.
