The nutritional value of coffee
In a recent blog we discussed the composition of coffee and how the compounds of caffeine, antioxidants and diterpenes contribute to the unique flavour and physiological effects of coffee. In this blog we provide nutritional information for a cup of black coffee.
Black coffee contains no significant amounts of the macronutrients, fat, carbohydrate and protein and therefore only has 1-2 calories per 100mls. But, the final nutritional profile of a cup of coffee will also be affected by several factors, which include:
- The addition of milk, cream, sugar and other sweeteners that will affect and may increase the calorie content
- The variation in cup sizes in the UK and across Europe may also alter the nutritional value
Black coffee consists of a number of micronutrients. The main ones are potassium, magnesium, niacin and a very low sodium level.
A typical micronutrient profile of 100mls of medium strength black coffee is:
- Sodium – Trace
- Potassium – 92mg
- Magnesium – 8mg
- Manganese – 0.05mg
- Riboflavin – 0.7mg
The type of water that is used in the preparation of the beverage may also influence the micronutrient content of a black cup of coffee. This is particularly in relation to the calcium and magnesium levels. There may also be slight variations in composition that could occur due to origin, growing conditions and processing.
It’s widely reported that a moderate consumption of coffee, equivalent to 3-5 cups a days will cause no problems and fit within a healthy, balanced diet and active lifestyle.
