7 Coffee Add-Ins Dietitians Swear By

Think a healthy coffee has to be black? Think again. Coffee can be a nutrient-packed, satisfying drink, and adding a few strategic ingredients can enhance both flavor and nutrition. We asked seven dietitians about their favorite coffee add-ins, and here’s what they recommend—backed by science.

Why Coffee Doesn’t Have to Be Black to Be Healthy

Many people assume black coffee is the “healthiest” option. While black coffee is low in calories and high in antioxidants like polyphenols, certain add-ins can enhance nutrition and satisfaction without negating the benefits. Adding protein, healthy fats, or fiber can increase satiety and provide extra micronutrients.

How Coffee Can Support a Healthier Day

Adding nutrient-rich ingredients to coffee can help curb mid-morning cravings and support energy levels, making it less likely that you’ll reach for a sugary snack. Beverages containing protein or nourishing fats have been shown to increase fullness and manage appetite.

Dietitians’ Favorite Coffee Add-Ins

1. Flavored Almond Milk Creamer

A splash of flavored almond milk creamer can give a sweet taste but generally has significantly less sugar than regular flavored creamers. Great for those who want sweetness without artificial sweeteners.
—Sheila Patterson, RD, CDCES, @thesugardietitian

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2. Creatine Monohydrate + Milk

Adding 3–5g of creatine monohydrate to coffee with milk may enhance creatine transport into muscles due to the insulin response triggered by milk’s carbohydrates. The amino acids and calcium in milk provide a light recovery boost—perfect after a workout.
—Nicole Randazzo, MA, RDN, CDCES, @bettrfull
Website

Creatine supports muscle energy, recovery, and even cognition. Pairing it with milk’s protein and carbs can make your post-workout coffee more functional, helping you get the most benefit from exercise. You can learn more about creatine here.

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3. Half-and-Half

Half-and-half is lighter than cream but still provides enough fat to create a velvety coffee without thinness or separation. It reduces bitterness and allows people to skip artificial flavors or added sugars.
—Lindsey Schoenfeld, MS, RDN, Chef, @to_taste
Website

The fat in half-and-half increases satiety, stabilizes flavor, and can make coffee more satisfying so you’re less likely to add extra sugar or skip meals later.

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4. Ground Cinnamon

Cinnamon adds sweetness without sugar and can be sprinkled on steamed milk or brewed with coffee grounds.
—Therese Bonanni, MS, RDN, @navesinknutrition
Website

Cinnamon also contains compounds that may help moderate blood sugar and add antioxidant benefits, making it a flavorful and functional addition.

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5. Marine Collagen or Prebiotic Inulin

Flavorless marine collagen can add ~10g of collagen and ~9g protein per serving, while organic prebiotic inulin contributes ~4g fiber. Both dissolve easily without altering taste.
—Helanutrition, Website

Collagen supports skin, joint, and muscle health (learn more about collagen here), while inulin feeds beneficial gut bacteria.

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6. Regular Milk

Milk adds protein and essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, making coffee creamy and satisfying.
—Gisela Bouvier, MBA, RDN, LDN, @nourish.con.gisela

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7. Unsweetened Soy Milk

Soy milk froths well and adds creaminess from protein and healthy fat.
—Sheri Gaw, RDN, CDCES, @sheridietitian
Website

Soy protein supports cardiovascular health and satiety, and unsweetened versions avoid excess sugar while still creating a creamy coffee experience.

Coffee Isn’t Breakfast—Your Body Still Needs Fuel

Coffee alone won’t provide all the nutrients or energy your body needs in the morning. Even if you aren’t hungry, studies show that skipping breakfast can reduce cognitive performance, energy, and focus ¹⁰. Pairing coffee with a balanced breakfast—like eggs, yogurt, or a fiber-rich smoothie—supports both nutrition and satisfaction.

Check out some of our favorite breakfast recipes to pair with coffee:

• Peanut Butter Banana Protein Cereal
• Cheesy Quiche Muffins
• Hummingbird Cottage Cheese Bowl

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Bonus Tips from Dietitians

• Experiment with lattes, iced coffee, or multiple add-ins for flavor and nutrition.
• Focus on satisfaction and nourishment—not restriction.
• Small tweaks can make coffee more enjoyable and prevent mid-morning snacking.

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Coffee can be both delicious and supportive of a balanced morning. Try a dietitian-approved add-in this week and pair it with a nourishing breakfast to start your day energized and satisfied.

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