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The #1 Best Coffee Combination to Lower Blood Sugar, Say Dietitians

If you want to keep your blood sugar levels stable throughout the morning, try this coffee hack.
FACT CHECKED BY Olivia Tarantino

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, and it's known for its bitterness, dark color, and light acidity. This caffeinated beverage is a source of antioxidants that can combat harmful free radicals in your body and it can provide a boost of energy to help you focus. But what you're putting in your coffee can make a big difference when it comes to reaping its energy benefits. Typical sweeteners and coffee additives can cause blood sugar levels to rise significantly, which is important to note for both diabetics as well as those who don't want to experience spikes and plummets in blood sugar, which can leave you feeling less energetic.

While black coffee may elicit a slight rise in blood sugar for some, if you are looking for an enhancement for your coffee and want to stay mindful of blood sugar, the best coffee combination is a cup of joe with collagen and fiber.

How adding collagen and fiber to coffee can support blood sugar management.

collagen protein powder coffee
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When selecting any supplement to add to your coffee, make sure they are sugar-free to maximize blood sugar management. The two we recommend are collagen powder and fiber.

Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, and you may have friends using it for its skin and joint benefits. While there is research to back these perks, because collagen is a source of protein, it can also benefit your blood sugar.

One study conducted in rats found that marine collagen peptides improved glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity in those with Type 2 Diabetes. In general, protein tends to positively impact blood sugar by slowing digestion and the release of sugar into the bloodstream.

Collagen is a relatively low-calorie way to add sugar-buffering protein to your coffee with some added health benefits, too.

Because all collagen products are animal-based, they may not be a good option for vegetarians and vegans. For those looking for a collagen alternative, protein powder can provide a similar blood sugar-stabilizing effect, but keep in mind protein powder is typically higher in calories and more likely to have added sugar.

Fiber

In addition to your collagen, a powdered fiber supplement can also go a long way in stabilizing blood sugar. While fiber is considered a form of carbohydrate, it is not digested and absorbed like other carbs, which can help keep blood sugar in your target range. Most fiber supplements are made up of mostly soluble fiber, the form that can help control blood sugar and is even documented to aid in cholesterol control, which may further benefit those with diabetes.

Melissa Rifkin, MS, RDN, CDN
Melissa is a Connecticut-based registered dietitian with over 15 years of experience, including clinical and outpatient settings, and runs the popular nutrition education Instagram account, Confessionofadietitian. Read more about Melissa
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