Adding proteins to your coffee seems to be the new fashionable tiptow. But behind the “PROFFEE” phenomenon, experts alert: excess protein, hidden sugars and health risks could transform this “health hack” into a trap. Alexandra Murcier, dietitian-nutritionist gives us some details and advice.
A craze from social networks
On Tiktok, the recipe card: an espresso coffee mixed with a dose of protein powder, all served with ice cubes. In itself, a gourmet drink filled with protein. Some add aromas (vanilla or caramel), milk … presented as a slimming and energizing “hack”, this drink quickly found thousands of fans. And this absolute research of proteins S “explains:”Proteins are the nutrients that bring the most satiety, so the more you eat, the less we are hungry“Explains Isabelle Denis, researcher at the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment.
In addition, in 2023, the Ministry of Agriculture announced a drop in beef consumption among the French, – 3.7 % in one year. To overcome the lack of animal protein, and obtain faster results in the gym, more and more French people therefore turn to protein powders, which can also be in the form of cereal, yogurt bars … But protein consumption, if not controlled, can lead to imbalances and health problems.
Consumption that can become serious
In the columns of The crossCatherine Coirault, research director at the National Institute of Health and Medical Research, these protein powders like Whey or Collagen are dangerous because we do not really know their composition: “By purchasing complements in the United States or extraordinary European standards, the consumer is exposed to toxic effects, such as the presence of anabolic steroids“.
The specialist insists on the dangers of excessive consumption of food supplements: “In general, I do not recommend consuming protein substitutes, except in particular cases, because we can normally completely cover our needs with a balanced diet“. She also recalls that”A hyperprotein diet therefore as much of 1.5/2G of protein per day, on can be harmful over the long term. This can cause significant health problems, including kidney failure, especially in people who are fragile“.
These compounds, consumed in excess can have significant side effects such as tachycardia, palpitations, discomfort or even fever … and the risks can be even more serious: in 2024, the ANSES listed 154 new cases of undesirable effects between 2016 and 2024. Among these cases, two people died and four people have put their vital prognosis into play.
Protein powders, not always a slimming ally
Regarding weight loss, Alexandra Murcier warns against imbalances: “Regarding weight loss, you should neither an excess nor a lack of protein that can cause weight gain and cause hormonal imbalance and loss of muscle mass that can reduce basic metabolism“.
“”The goal is to find a balance between all nutrients, varying with carbohydrates and lipids“, She adds.
Alexandra Murcier sums up: “In itself, consuming it from time to time or even daily in your coffee is not a concern, as long as you do not fall into a global hyperprotein diet“. Beyond excess protein, some powders hide other traps.”Some products contain sugar or sweeteners which both have a negative impact on the weight“Concludes the dietician.