When it comes to losing weight, even your coffee choice can make a difference. Two of the most popular options at any café are the Americano and the Latte.
Both are made from espresso, but they differ in calories, caffeine content, and how they impact your diet. So, let’s break it down and find out which is truly better for weight loss.
What Is an Americano?
An Americano is made by adding hot water to one or two shots of espresso. This simple mix creates a strong, bold flavor without added sugar or milk.
- Calories: Around 15 calories per cup
- Caffeine: Between 130–260 mg, depending on the number of espresso shots
Because it’s almost calorie-free, an Americano is one of the best coffee choices for people trying to lose weight. It provides a clean caffeine boost without the sugar or fat found in other drinks.
What Is a Latte?
A Latte, short for caffè latte, is made from espresso and steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of foam. The milk makes it creamy, smooth, and slightly sweet.
- Calories: Around 150 calories per cup (can vary with milk type and size)
- Caffeine: Around 210 mg for a 16-ounce serving
While lattes are satisfying and rich, their extra milk adds calories and carbohydrates, which can slow down weight loss if you’re not tracking your intake.
Calorie Comparison: Americano vs Latte
| Drink | Main Ingredients | Calories (approx.) | Caffeine (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Americano | Espresso + hot water | 15 | 130–260 mg |
| Latte | Espresso + steamed milk + foam | 150 | 180–210 mg |
A single latte can have 135 more calories than an Americano. Over time, those extra calories add up, especially if you drink coffee daily.
If your goal is fat loss, switching from a latte to an Americano could save you nearly 1,000 calories a week (assuming one cup per day). That’s a small but meaningful step toward your weight-loss goals.
Does an Americano Have More Caffeine Than a Latte?
Generally, yes, but it depends on how each drink is prepared.
- An Americano made with two shots of espresso often has more caffeine than a latte made with the same amount of espresso and milk.
- However, since milk dilutes the flavor and can stretch the volume, many baristas add extra espresso shots to lattes, which can even out the caffeine difference.
If you’re after a stronger caffeine kick with fewer calories, an Americano wins. It provides sustained energy without spiking your calorie count.
Which Is More Filling?
While the latte contains more calories, it also provides protein, calcium, and fat from the milk nutrients that can help you feel fuller for longer.
In contrast, the Americano has almost no fat or protein, so it won’t keep you satisfied as long.
That means:
- For weight loss and appetite control, you could start with an Americano and pair it with a high-protein snack like boiled eggs or Greek yogurt.
- If you’re replacing breakfast with coffee, a latte might be more filling, but you’ll need to track your calories carefully.
Is an Americano Healthier Than a Latte?
When your goal is to lose weight, yes, the Americano is generally the healthier choice.
Here’s why:
- Lower calories
- No added sugar or dairy fat
- Less likely to break your fast if you practice intermittent fasting
- Still provides energy and mental focus
However, if you’re sensitive to caffeine or need a more satisfying drink, a latte with low-fat milk or plant-based milk can still fit into a healthy diet.
How to Make Your Coffee More Weight-Loss Friendly
Avoid added sugar and flavored syrups
These can easily turn your coffee into a dessert.
Use low-fat milk
Choose low-fat or non-dairy milk if you prefer a latte. Almond, oat, or skim milk can lower calories.
Stick to smaller sizes
A short or tall cup keeps portions under control.
Skip the whipped cream
It adds unnecessary fat and sugar.
Drink it black sometimes
Training your palate to enjoy coffee without milk helps reduce cravings.
So, Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
Winner: Americano
The Americano is better for weight loss because it’s virtually calorie-free, sugar-free, and still delivers that satisfying coffee flavor and caffeine boost.
If you love creamy coffee, enjoy a latte occasionally, just opt for lighter milk options and watch your portions. But if your main goal is to shed pounds, make the Americano your daily go-to.
FAQ: Americano vs Latte: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
Does an Americano break a fast?
A plain Americano does not break your fast, since it contains almost no calories or sugar. Just skip the milk or sweeteners.
Can I drink lattes while trying to lose weight?
Yes, but limit them to once in a while. Choose skim or almond milk to cut calories.
Is Americano stronger than brewed coffee?
Espresso-based Americanos are usually stronger in flavor and caffeine than regular drip coffee, depending on the number of shots.
How many calories are in an iced latte?
An iced latte with whole milk has around 120–180 calories, depending on size and milk type.
What’s the healthiest coffee to drink for weight loss?
Black coffee or Americano, no sugar, no milk, no cream. Both provide caffeine with minimal calories.
Final Verdict
If you want to lose weight but still love your daily coffee, choose the Americano. It’s light, bold, and waistline-friendly — the perfect blend of flavor and fitness.