Introduction
Ever wonder what those flavored creamers do to your blood sugar? In this viral experiment, I tested five popular coffee creamers while wearing a continuous glucose monitor. The results were surprising – some “sugar‑free” options spiked my glucose almost as much as a dessert! Here’s what happened and how to choose a safer splash for your morning brew.
What I Tested
| Creamer | Carbohydrate source | Blood‑sugar spike | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| French vanilla liquid creamer | Contains corn syrup solids | +42 mg/dL | Sweetened liquid creamers often use hidden sugars. |
| Powdered non‑dairy creamer | Partially hydrogenated oils, added sugar | +35 mg/dL | “Non‑dairy” doesn’t mean sugar‑free. |
| Oat‑milk creamer | Cane sugar, oats | +28 mg/dL | Plant‑based but still sweetened. |
| Half & half | Milk and cream | +8 mg/dL | Minimal carbs; a safer choice. |
| Heavy cream | Pure cream | +3 mg/dL | Virtually no sugar; best for a flat glucose curve. |
Introduction
Ever wonder what those flavored creamers do to your blood sugar? In this viral experiment, I tested five popular coffee creamers while wearing a continuous glucose monitor. The results were surprising – some “sugar‑free” options spiked my glucose almost as much as a dessert! Here’s what happened and how to choose a safer splash for your morning brew.
What I Tested
| Creamer | Carbohydrate source | Blood‑sugar spike | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| French vanilla liquid creamer | Contains corn syrup solids | +42 mg/dL | Sweetened liquid creamers often use hidden sugars. |
| Powdered non‑dairy creamer | Partially hydrogenated oils, added sugar | +35 mg/dL | “Non‑dairy” doesn’t mean sugar‑free. |
| Oat‑milk creamer | Cane sugar, oats | +28 mg/dL | Plant‑based but still sweetened. |
| Half & half | Milk and cream | +8 mg/dL | Minimal carbs; a safer choice. |
| Heavy cream | Pure cream | +3 mg/dL | Virtually no sugar; best for a flat glucose curve. |
Why Some Creamers Spike You
Hidden sweeteners: Many flavored creamers use corn syrup solids or cane sugar. Even “sugar‑free” options may contain sucralose, which can trigger a cephalic phase insulin response.
Low‑fat trap: Reduced‑fat or non‑dairy creamers often replace fat with sugar and stabilizers. This combination can cause a bigger glucose surge than full‑fat dairy.
Caffeine and cortisol: Coffee itself is a stimulant. Research shows that caffeine activates the stress axis and elevates cortisol and catecholamine output. Cortisol can temporarily raise blood glucose, so adding sugar‑laden creamer on top sets the stage for a spike.
Better Creamer Choices
Bottom Line
Flavored creamers can spike your blood sugar even if they’re marketed as “low‑sugar.” Choose full‑fat dairy or DIY blends, and be wary of artificial sweeteners that may prompt an insulin response. Your morning coffee doesn’t need to behave like a dessert!
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