Drinking Americano To Lose Weight, Is It Safe?

Illustration of drinking Eropano. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - The trend of drinking Americano coffee as part of the weight loss program is now increasingly being discussed. However, is this method safe?

Americano is a food-based drink that is added by hot water because it tastes light and does not contain sugar or milk, so it is low in calories.

The Health page says Americano is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy coffee without worrying about adding to excessive energy intake.

Americano's jar generally contains only about five calories, making it a friendly drink for those who are limiting daily calorie intake. In addition to low calories, the caffeine content in it is also said to help reduce hunger while supporting the body's metabolism.

Caffeine works by stimulating the release of the hormone epinephrine which plays a role in the fat breaking process into energy.

Caffeine also stimulates the central nervous system so that metabolic rate increases. According to Health, research shows that caffeine can increase metabolism by up to 311 percent, although the effect on weight loss is still moderate.

Not only that, Americano contains antioxidants such as polyphenols and chlorogenic acids that are useful against free radicals, reduces the risk of inflammation, and reduces the chance of developing diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart problems, and certain cancers, especially if consumed without additional sugar or creamer.

Several studies also attribute moderate coffee consumption to about three to four cups per day to a decrease in the risk of early death and cardiovascular disease.

However, excessive consumption can have a negative impact, such as palpitations, sleep disorders, rising stomach acid, to anxiety. For healthy adults, caffeine safe limits are usually not more than 400 mg per day or the equivalent of three to four cups of Americano.

For pregnant women, people with ulcers, or those who are sensitive to caffeine, this amount should be reduced. It is also recommended not to drink coffee when the stomach is empty because it can trigger irritation of the stomach. Adjusting the amount of consumption according to the condition of the body is the key so that the benefits remain optimal without triggering side effects.