Is it good to drink cappuccino every day, and what are its benefits? The ingredients used do make a difference, according to experts.
Cappuccino, a popular beverage made with espresso and steamed milk, is consumed daily by millions of people as part of breakfast or as an after-dinner drink. But what impact does regular consumption have on health? According to nutrition specialists and various medical sources, the benefits or risks of cappuccino depend largely on how it is prepared and the amount consumed.
Cappuccino combines espresso with steamed milk and foam. Photo: iStock
A standard cappuccino contains between 30 and 40 milliliters of espresso and about 120 milliliters of milk , which can be whole, skim, or plant-based. This composition determines its calorie content and the amount of saturated fat. It is estimated that one cup contains, on average, 6.3 grams of fat, of which 4 grams are saturated, which represents more than 10% of the recommended daily limit.
Benefits associated with moderate consumption Espresso coffee, the main component of cappuccino, is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols and melanoids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases. Research in Norway and Italy concludes that moderate coffee consumption—up to four cups a day —can reduce cardiovascular risk and offer neurological protection against Alzheimer's.
On the other hand, milk—especially if it's skim or enriched with plant-based milk —provides protein, calcium, and vitamins that contribute to bone health. In addition, caffeine can improve alertness, concentration, and metabolism when consumed in moderation.
Cappuccino provides antioxidants that help prevent chronic diseases. Photo: iStock
- Antioxidant content: Espresso coffee contains polyphenols and melanoids that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Improved concentration: Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, promoting alertness and cognitive performance.
- Metabolism boost: It can increase the resting metabolic rate, which helps in burning calories.
- Bone health: Milk provides calcium and protein essential for maintaining strong bones, especially if you choose low-fat or plant-based versions.
- Prevention of neurodegenerative diseases: Studies in Norway and Italy link regular coffee consumption with a lower risk of Alzheimer's and cognitive decline.
- Long-term well-being: Research from the University of Toronto found that women who consumed one to three cups of coffee daily for several decades were more likely to age in good physical and mental health.
However, excessive daily consumption can have adverse effects. Drinking cappuccinos made with whole milk or added sugar can significantly increase calorie and saturated fat intake, increasing the risk of weight gain and cardiovascular disease.
- Weight gain: especially if prepared with whole milk or added sugar, which increases the calorie intake.
- Symptoms of excess caffeine: such as insomnia, irritability, palpitations or anxiety.
- Exposure to additives: Instant coffee may contain acrylamide, a substance with neurotoxic effects in animal studies.
The Mayo Clinic suggests not exceeding three or four cups of coffee per day, which is equivalent to a maximum of 400 milligrams of caffeine for healthy adults. It is also recommended to avoid coffee on an empty stomach and prefer to consume it 30 to 60 minutes after breakfast to improve metabolic tolerance.
To reduce risks, it's recommended to prepare cappuccino with skim or plant-based milk and avoid adding sugar or syrup . Calorie-free sweeteners can be used instead . It's also suggested to opt for espresso or natural filter coffee, avoiding instant versions with additives.
People with high blood pressure, anxiety, insomnia, or caffeine sensitivity should limit or avoid it. The same applies to pregnant women, people with cardiovascular risk, or lactose intolerance, who should consult a health professional before including cappuccino regularly in their diet.
El Universal (Mexico) / GDA
More news in EL TIEMPO *This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from El Universal (GDA), and reviewed by the journalist and an editor.
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