What is the 7-second coffee loophole for weight loss?

Substitutes, tricks or hacks cannot replace a balanced diet and healthy eating habits, experts urge

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | July 1, 2024 09:30 AM IST

3 min read

Is black coffee that good? (Source: Freepik)

After the ‘2-2-2‘ technique, ‘oat-zempic‘ trend, and ‘OMAD‘, social media is abuzz with the 7-second coffee loophole as an effective way to lose weight. So, much like the Dukan Diet, Low FODMAP diet, and some morning habits, we have decoded this unique coffee trick that promises visible results.

What does it entail?

The idea is to drink black coffee with additives like lemon, and cinnamon when you feel hungry within seven seconds to curb the feeling and reduce appetite. Those advocating for this approach argue that it speeds up satiety, thereby reducing untimely cravings and hence, aiding weight loss efforts. “The principle behind the 7-second loophole is based on how caffeine affects hunger hormones. When you drink black coffee, it stimulates the release of hormones such as adrenaline and dopamine which may temporarily suppress appetite. Hunger and snacking can be reduced through strategic timing of your coffee intake according to its supporters,” explained Veena V, dietician, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bangalore.

However, despite what influencers are saying, “there are no direct scientific studies that have been carried out to prove the efficacy of the 7-second coffee loophole”, Veena emphaised. “Relying on such fads for weight loss might be misleading since caffeine is known to influence appetite and metabolism,” said Veena.

Here’s how your metabolism is affected (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

What do you need to keep in mind?

While the 7-second coffee loophole might offer a temporary solution to curb hunger, it is essential to approach such trends with caution.

Substitutes, tricks, or hacks do not take away the place of a balanced diet and healthy eating habits. “Some ingredients found in weight loss supplements like chromium, green tea extracts, chlorogenic acid as well as L-carnitine commonly used in making coffee loopholes have shown some potential effects on body weight. Nevertheless, these effects are modest when compared with those that can result from adhering to good nutrition and lifestyle practices like a healthy diet,” elucidated Veena.

Also Read | ICMR issues guidelines to limit tea, coffee intake; suggests ideal amount of caffeine to be consumed daily

Sustainable weight loss is best achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices, rather than relying on quick fixes and unverified methods, added Veena.

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