Coffee is no longer just a caffeine delivery system. People are adding powders, spices, and superfoods to their morning brew to boost its health benefits, according to Vincent Pedre, MD, medical director of Pedre Integrative Health in New York City and author of Happy Gut. While the trend of adding these ingredients to coffee is popular, it’s important to note that many DIY health hacks shared on social media lack expert vetting and robust scientific backing. To help navigate this trend, nutrition experts have weighed in on which add-ins are beneficial, which are harmless, and which to avoid. Here’s a ranked list to guide your choices:
Why is this trend happening?
People are increasingly interested in proactively managing their health and are searching for simple ways to enhance their daily routines. Social media has fueled this trend, with people sharing DIY health hacks and promoting the idea that small additions to beverages can significantly impact well-being. However, it’s crucial to approach these trends with caution, as not all claims are supported by scientific evidence.
Ranking the Add-Ins: From Best to Worst
Here’s a breakdown of popular coffee add-ins, ranked from most to least beneficial:
1. Spices
Instead of pre-flavored coffee, adding spices like cinnamon and chicory root can provide both a distinctive flavor and potential health benefits. Jackie Newgent, RDN, a plant-forward chef, nutritionist, and author, recommends spices as a great way to add flavor.
- Benefits: Cinnamon has shown potential benefits for cardiometabolic health and weight management.
- How to Use: Add directly to your coffee grounds before brewing or sprinkle into your cup.
- Cichory Root: A source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health.
2. Collagen Powder
Popularized by Jennifer Aniston, collagen supplements are believed to improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Benefits: Studies suggest that collagen supplementation may improve skin firmness, suppleness, and moisture, and may alleviate joint pain associated with arthritis.
- How to Use: Mix powder directly into your coffee; it typically dissolves easily.
- Considerations: Many collagen supplements contain other ingredients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid, making it difficult to isolate the effects of collagen alone.
3. Baking Soda (Use with Caution)
Some people add baking soda to coffee in hopes of neutralizing its acidity.
- Potential Benefit: May reduce stomach discomfort caused by coffee’s acidity.
- Risks: Excessive baking soda consumption can lead to metabolic alkalosis and introduces a significant amount of sodium into your diet (over 1,200mg per teaspoon).
- Better Alternatives: Consider low-acid coffee varieties (dark roasts, espresso) or cold brew, which is naturally lower in acidity.
4. Cinnamon & Chicory Root (Honorable Mention)
Adding spices to your coffee can add flavor and give you an added boost of nutrients.
- Benefits: Can help improve metabolic health and weight management.
- How to Use: Try different spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or chicory root.
5. Baking Soda
Some people add baking soda to coffee in hopes of neutralizing its acidity.
- Potential Benefit: May reduce stomach discomfort caused by coffee’s acidity.
- Risks: Excessive baking soda consumption can lead to metabolic alkalosis and introduces a significant amount of sodium into your diet (over 1,200mg per teaspoon).
- Better Alternatives: Consider low-acid coffee varieties (dark roasts, espresso) or cold brew, which is naturally lower in acidity.
6. Spices
Adding spices to your coffee can add flavor and give you an added boost of nutrients.
- Benefits: Can help improve metabolic health and weight management.
- How to Use: Try different spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or chicory root.
7. Lemon Juice
Some individuals add lemon juice to their coffee believing it supports digestion and provides a vitamin C boost.
- Potential Benefit: May stimulate digestive secretions, but the effect might be minimal.
- Considerations: Acidic, so may exacerbate existing digestive issues. Consume before meals, not on an empty stomach.
8. Baking Soda (Use with Caution)
Some people add baking soda to coffee in hopes of neutralizing its acidity.
- Potential Benefit: May reduce stomach discomfort caused by coffee’s acidity.
- Risks: Excessive baking soda consumption can lead to metabolic alkalosis and introduces a significant amount of sodium into your diet (over 1,200mg per teaspoon).
- Better Alternatives: Consider low-acid coffee varieties (dark roasts, espresso) or cold brew, which is naturally lower in acidity.
The Takeaway
The rise in popularity of adding powders, spices, and other ingredients to coffee reflects a desire for simple, everyday ways to enhance well-being. However, it’s crucial to approach these trends with discernment. While some add-ins, like spices and collagen, show promise, others carry potential risks. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
Editorial Sources
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Resources
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Fontes A L et al. Study of the viability of using lipase-hydrolyzed commercial vegetable oils to produce microbially conjugated linolenic acid-enriched milk. Food Chemistry. July 1, 2023.
Liang C-W et al. Effects of conjugated linoleic acid and exercise on body composition and obesity; a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition Reviews. April 2023.
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Freitas D et al. Glycemic response, satiety, gastric secretions and emptying after bread consumption with water, tea, or lemon juice; a randomized crossover intervention using MRI. European Journal of Nutrition. January 11, 2022.
Anboura M. I’ll Have What She’s Having: Jennifer Aniston’s Exact Coffee Order. Vogue. April 29, 2025.
Will Lemon Coffee Help You Lose Weight? Cleveland Clinic. October 8, 2021.
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Roxana Ehsani, RD
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Roxana Ehsani, RD, is a Miami-based licensed dietitian-nutritionist, board-certified specialist in sports dietetics, and media spokesperson, consultant, and content creator for food and nutrition brands. She is an adjunct instructor for sports nutrition at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg.
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Leah Groth is a Philadelphia-based writer and editor specializing in health, wellness, and lifestyle. She regularly contributes to top media outlets, including VeryWell, InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Reader’s Digest
