Jennifer Aniston, known for her radiant health and timeless beauty, has become a prominent figure in the self-care sphere. She openly shares her wellness practices, inspiring many to emulate her lifestyle. One particular habit that has garnered attention is her morning coffee ritual, incorporating apple cider vinegar and collagen powder. But what are the real benefits of this routine, and is it truly a path to weight loss and overall well-being?
The Aniston Morning Ritual: Apple Cider Vinegar and Collagen Coffee
Aniston starts her day with a shot of apple cider vinegar (ACV) before anything else. Following this, she adds a scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides to her morning coffee. She believes in allowing the ACV to work its magic first, citing its potential benefits in balancing blood sugar, boosting immunity, and aiding digestion.
According to Manhattan-based nutritionist Maria Marlowe, apple cider vinegar can indeed help prevent significant blood sugar spikes, especially when taken in the morning or before a carbohydrate-rich meal. Balanced blood sugar is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and achieving clear skin.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Dosage and Considerations
For those who find the taste of straight ACV too intense, incorporating it into salad dressings and marinades can still provide digestive benefits. ACV can activate enzymes that facilitate food breakdown, potentially reducing bloating and improving nutrient absorption.
If consuming ACV directly, diluting one tablespoon in a full glass of water is recommended. It's essential to ensure that ACV doesn't interact negatively with any medications and to avoid it if you have low potassium levels.
Read also: Protein Coffee Smoothie Recipe
Collagen Coffee: The Recipe and Rationale
Aniston's daily ritual also includes a hot mug of coffee mixed with collagen powder. Collagen, the most abundant protein in the body, is a key component of skin and connective tissues like ligaments, tendons, and muscles. As we age, collagen production naturally declines.
To make this low-calorie, low-sodium, collagen-rich coffee, you'll need:
- Brewed black coffee
- Milk of choice
- Sugar or a sugar substitute (optional)
- Collagen powder
Simply stir the ingredients together. You can substitute granulated sugar with honey or agave nectar. For those who prefer iced coffee, the mixture can be served over ice.
Collagen Supplements: Benefits and Scientific Backing
Collagen supplements, particularly powders, have gained immense popularity in recent years, touted for their potential to promote youthful skin, strengthen bones, and enhance hair and nail health.
Victoria Seaver, M.S., RD, EatingWell's associate editorial director, suggests that while collagen supplements can be beneficial, they aren't essential. Consuming collagen-rich foods like bone broth and chicken skin can also boost intake. The most effective approach to support healthy collagen production involves focusing on foods high in proline, glycine, and vitamin C.
Read also: Weight-Loss Trend: Coffee Loophole Diet
The Debate: Collagen in Hot Coffee
While adding collagen powder to coffee seems like a convenient way to supplement your diet, there's some debate about its effectiveness in hot beverages. According to Texas A&M researcher Brooke Russell, Ph.D., collagen may not withstand temperatures higher than body temperature, potentially diminishing or negating its health benefits. Therefore, incorporating collagen powder into smoothies or simply stirring it into a glass of water might be more effective.
Jennifer Aniston's Broader Wellness Philosophy
Aniston's collagen coffee is just one aspect of her holistic wellness approach. She emphasizes the importance of daily rituals such as spending time outdoors with her dogs, exercising, connecting with friends, and unwinding with her favorite music. These practices contribute to her overall well-being and complement her dietary choices.
Vital Proteins: Aniston's Brand of Choice
Jennifer Aniston has a partnership with Vital Proteins and has openly promoted their collagen products. She even serves as the brand's Chief Creative Officer, meaning she not only uses their products but also has a say in their product development and marketing. Vital Proteins' Collagen Peptides is one of her favorites. She often adds a scoop of the chocolate version to her daily smoothie. Her smoothie concoction consists of:
- One cup of chocolate almond milk
- Cherries
- One banana
- A few drops of stevia extract
- Antioxidants
- One cup of ice
- Spinach
- Matcha powder
- A spoonful of almond butter
Beyond Collagen Peptides: Other Vital Proteins Products
Vital Proteins offers a variety of collagen products that are available for purchase. One of the brands' bestsellers is the Collagen Peptides, which is also available in a chocolate flavor. Beauty Collagen, which tastes like strawberries and contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and probiotics, is also a favorite. For those looking for a protein boost with their coffee, the brand has a coffee-infused Protein Powder.
Other Vital Proteins products include Beef Gelatin Powder, which dissolves in both hot and cold liquids, and Radiance Boost capsules.
Read also: The Truth About Baking Soda and Coffee for Weight Loss