Bulletproof Coffee: Keto-Friendly Or Not?

Bulletproof coffee is a high-calorie drink intended to replace a carb-heavy breakfast. It is made with coffee, butter and oil, which help you feel full, alert and focused. It is popular among people on the keto diet as it contains a large amount of fat to keep you full until your next meal and keep you in ketosis. However, it is high in saturated fat and may not be a healthy meal replacement.

What is bulletproof coffee?

Bulletproof coffee, also known as butter coffee, is a high-calorie caffeinated drink made with added fat. It is intended to fuel your day by replacing a carb-heavy breakfast. It was created by Dave Asprey, the originator of the Bulletproof diet, who is an American entrepreneur and author. The drink has become popular with low-carb and keto diet followers.

Bulletproof coffee combines coffee, made from high-quality beans, with unsalted butter, and a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) such as coconut oil or palm oil. The ingredients are blended together and served warm, taking on the look of a creamy latte.

The original recipe calls for 1 cup of brewed coffee, 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons of MCT oil, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter, all mixed in a blender until foamy. On the original recipe page, Asprey claims that starting the day with bulletproof coffee can help those who follow intermittent fasting or the keto diet "feel satiated, alert and focused".

Bulletproof coffee is typically consumed first thing in the morning, although some experts argue that it may be better to wait until around 10 am, when cortisol levels start to dip.

How to make bulletproof coffee

Bulletproof coffee is a blend of high-quality coffee, MCT oil, and grass-fed ghee (or butter). It offers sustained energy, increased satiety, and enhanced cognitive function. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious bulletproof coffee:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of hot, freshly brewed black coffee
• 1-2 tablespoons of grass-fed unsalted butter or ghee
• 1-2 teaspoons of MCT oil
• Optional: Pink Himalayan sea salt, ground cinnamon, collagen powder, vanilla extract, or cocoa powder

Instructions:

• Brew your coffee using your preferred method.
• Add the coffee, butter or ghee, and MCT oil to a blender.
• Blend the ingredients for 20-30 seconds until smooth and frothy.
• Pour the blended coffee into a mug and enjoy!

Tips:

• If you don't have a blender, you can use a milk frother or simply whisk the ingredients together.
• Start with smaller amounts of MCT oil and butter/ghee, and gradually increase the amount as your body adjusts to the added fats.
• Experiment with different variations, such as cold brew coffee, sugar-free sweeteners, or flavored versions.
• For a refreshing iced coffee, blend cold brew coffee with butter and MCT oil, and serve over ice.

Is bulletproof coffee healthy?

Bulletproof coffee is a high-calorie drink intended to replace a carb-heavy breakfast. It is made by blending coffee with butter and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil. It is popular among people who follow a ketogenic diet.

There are several purported benefits of bulletproof coffee, including:

• Energy: The MCT oil provides immediate energy that is quickly metabolized. The combination of caffeine and healthy fats is said to provide a longer-lasting energy boost than coffee alone. The fats from the butter are metabolized more slowly, providing a steadier source of energy.
• Weight loss and appetite control: MCT oils have been associated with increases in hormones that reduce appetite and decrease fat accumulation.
• Brain function: MCT oils and butter are metabolized into ketones, which can be used as fuel for the brain by those following a ketogenic diet.
• Reduced inflammation

However, there are also potential downsides to consuming bulletproof coffee. It is very high in saturated fat, which may be harmful in large doses. It is also lacking in several nutrients, so drinking it regularly instead of a nutritious breakfast may reduce your overall nutrient intake. Finally, it may raise your cholesterol levels, particularly if you already have high cholesterol.

In conclusion, bulletproof coffee may be a healthy choice for some people, particularly those following a ketogenic diet who do not have elevated cholesterol levels. However, it is important to consume it in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. If you are interested in trying bulletproof coffee, it is best to consult a healthcare professional first to ensure it is safe for you.

Who should/shouldn't drink it?

Bulletproof coffee is keto-approved, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some considerations to help determine if you should or shouldn't drink it:

Who Should Drink Bulletproof Coffee?

• People on the Keto Diet: Bulletproof coffee is particularly popular among those following a ketogenic diet. The high-fat content can help keep them in ketosis and provide a good source of energy.
• People Seeking a Filling Breakfast Option: Bulletproof coffee is designed to be a meal replacement, and its high-fat content can help curb cravings and increase feelings of fullness. If you're looking for something to tide you over until lunch, this could be a good option.
• People Seeking a Boost in Energy and Focus: The combination of caffeine and healthy fats in bulletproof coffee is said to provide sustained energy and improved focus without the jitters associated with regular coffee. If you're looking for a morning pick-me-up, this might be worth trying.

Who Shouldn't Drink Bulletproof Coffee?

• People with High Cholesterol or Heart Disease Risk Factors: Bulletproof coffee is high in saturated fat and has been linked to increased LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels in some studies. If you have high cholesterol or are at risk for heart disease, it's best to avoid bulletproof coffee or consume it sparingly.
• People Seeking a Nutritious Breakfast: While bulletproof coffee can be filling, it lacks the nutritional value of a balanced breakfast. Replacing a nutritious meal with bulletproof coffee regularly can lead to a reduction in your overall nutrient intake.
• People Sensitive to High-Fat Diets: Some individuals may have specific health concerns or sensitivities to high-fat diets. If you have any health conditions or are taking medication, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating bulletproof coffee into your routine.

What are the benefits?

Bulletproof coffee is keto-approved and offers several benefits, including:

Energy

The MCT oil in bulletproof coffee is a great source of immediate energy. The healthy fats from the MCT oil are metabolized quickly, providing a longer-lasting energy boost than coffee alone. The fats from the butter are broken down more slowly, offering a steadier source of energy throughout the day. This combination of caffeine and healthy fats can help you feel more alert and focused, without the caffeine jitters or crashes that often come with a regular cup of coffee.

Weight Loss & Appetite Control

MCT oils have been linked to increased feelings of fullness and can support weight management. The fat in bulletproof coffee helps curb cravings and keeps you feeling full for longer, making it an excellent breakfast replacement for those looking to lose weight.

Brain Function

MCT oils and butter are metabolized into ketones, which can be used as fuel for the brain by those following a ketogenic diet. This can lead to enhanced cognitive function and improved mental clarity.

Reduced Inflammation

Grass-fed butter, which is recommended for bulletproof coffee, contains omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while CLA has been studied for its potential benefits in weight management.

Convenience

Bulletproof coffee is a convenient way to get your caffeine fix and a nutritious breakfast on the go. It can be easily made at home with just a few simple ingredients and a blender or milk frother.

While bulletproof coffee offers these benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is also advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your daily routine, especially if you have specific health concerns such as high cholesterol.

Frequently asked questions