The Ingredients in the Coffee Hack, Explained

January 1, 2026 •

4 min read

According to a 2017 study in the BMJ, moderate coffee consumption has been linked to numerous health benefits. The recent 'coffee hack' trend on social media leverages this idea, adding specific ingredients to potentially boost weight loss and metabolism. But what are the ingredients in the coffee hack?

Quick Summary

The coffee hack involves adding metabolic-supportive ingredients such as lemon, cinnamon, or MCT oil to black coffee to potentially suppress appetite and enhance fat burning. This trend leverages coffee's natural stimulating properties alongside added components for various purported health benefits, often linked to weight management.

Key Points

ACV & Lemon: Adding apple cider vinegar and lemon juice aims to aid digestion, stabilize blood sugar, and control appetite.
Cinnamon & Cayenne: Thermogenic spices like cinnamon and cayenne are used to boost metabolism and regulate blood sugar.
MCT Oil & Butter: Inspired by Bulletproof Coffee, this combination provides healthy fats for sustained energy and mental clarity, particularly for keto dieters.
Individual Variations: The specific ingredients in the coffee hack can vary widely depending on desired effects, from thermogenic blends to those focused on fat and satiety.
Not a Magic Cure: While these ingredients may offer supplementary benefits, the coffee hack is not a standalone solution for weight loss and should complement a balanced diet and exercise.

The 'coffee hack' is a popular and evolving trend that goes beyond simply drinking black coffee. It involves combining coffee with a mix of ingredients that proponents claim can amplify its effects, particularly concerning metabolism and weight management. While the exact combination varies depending on the specific goal—whether for appetite control, ketogenic benefits, or general wellness—several key ingredients appear frequently.

Popular Ingredients and Their Purported Benefits

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) and Lemon

One common variation of the coffee hack involves adding apple cider vinegar and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This concoction is often consumed in the morning, sometimes to support intermittent fasting. Both ACV and lemon are known for their purported digestive benefits. ACV, particularly with 'the mother', is believed to aid digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels, which can assist with appetite control and reduce cravings. Lemon adds a dose of Vitamin C and antioxidants while also supporting the liver's natural detoxification processes. The combination is thought to create an acidic environment that some believe can enhance metabolic functions. However, it's important to dilute ACV well to avoid irritating the stomach lining or damaging tooth enamel.

Cinnamon and Cayenne Pepper

Another popular iteration of the hack focuses on thermogenic spices, specifically cinnamon and cayenne pepper.

Cinnamon: This spice is often added for its potential to regulate blood sugar levels. Stabilized blood sugar can help prevent energy crashes and subsequent cravings for sugary foods. It also adds a pleasant, warm flavor that can make the coffee more palatable without extra sugar. Some studies have linked cinnamon consumption to improved insulin sensitivity.
Cayenne Pepper: This spice contains capsaicin, a compound known for its thermogenic properties. Thermogenesis is the process by which the body produces heat, which in turn can burn more calories. Adding a pinch of cayenne is believed by some to give their metabolism a minor boost. When combined with coffee, this can create a warming, spicy drink. However, similar to ACV, it can cause stomach irritation in some individuals.

MCT Oil and Butter

This version of the coffee hack is inspired by Bulletproof Coffee and is particularly popular within the ketogenic diet community. It focuses on adding healthy fats to provide sustained energy and promote satiety. Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) oil, which is often derived from coconut oil, is quickly absorbed and converted into ketones, a fast-burning fuel source for the brain and body. Adding grass-fed butter or ghee provides additional healthy fats and a rich, creamy texture. This blend can help prolong feelings of fullness, reduce cravings, and improve mental clarity.

Coffee Hack Comparison Table


Feature	ACV & Lemon Hack	Cinnamon & Cayenne Hack	MCT Oil & Butter Hack
Primary Goal	Appetite control, blood sugar regulation, digestion aid.	Metabolism boost via thermogenesis, blood sugar stabilization.	Sustained energy, mental clarity, prolonged satiety, keto support.
Flavor Profile	Tangy, acidic.	Warm, spicy.	Rich, creamy.
Key Ingredients	Apple cider vinegar, lemon juice.	Cinnamon, cayenne pepper.	MCT oil or coconut oil, grass-fed butter or ghee.
Common Timing	Morning, particularly during intermittent fasting.	Mid-morning or afternoon to curb cravings.	Morning, often as a breakfast substitute.
Key Mechanisms	Acetic acid from ACV and Vitamin C from lemon.	Capsaicin from cayenne and blood sugar effects of cinnamon.	Quick energy conversion from MCTs; healthy fats promote satiety.

How to Incorporate the Coffee Hack into Your Routine

Adding these ingredients to your coffee is straightforward, though the method can differ based on the hack you choose. For the ACV and lemon version, simply stir the diluted ACV and lemon juice into your hot or iced coffee. For the cinnamon and cayenne hack, a simple stir will suffice. To achieve the signature frothy texture of the MCT oil and butter hack, you will need to use a high-speed blender or an immersion blender. This emulsifies the fats into the coffee, creating a latte-like consistency. It's important to start with small amounts of any new ingredient to assess your tolerance and avoid digestive issues.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While some people report positive experiences with the coffee hack, it's not without potential downsides. Excessive coffee intake can lead to over-caffeination, causing anxiety, headaches, or heart palpitations. The acidic nature of ingredients like ACV and lemon can aggravate acid reflux or cause stomach upset. Furthermore, relying on a coffee hack as a quick fix for weight loss can lead to unhealthy eating habits and may not provide a sustainable solution. Experts emphasize that long-term weight management is best achieved through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindful eating practices. It is also wise to consult a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Conclusion

The ingredients in the coffee hack vary widely, ranging from acidic additions like lemon juice and apple cider vinegar to thermogenic spices such as cinnamon and cayenne, and high-fat components like MCT oil and butter. Each variation is designed to achieve different health goals, primarily related to metabolism, appetite control, and sustained energy. While some users find these hacks helpful for managing cravings and supporting their wellness routines, they are not a magic bullet for weight loss. The true benefit comes from a holistic approach to health that incorporates mindful eating, regular physical activity, and a well-rounded diet. The coffee hack can be a tool to support a healthier lifestyle, but it's not a substitute for it.

Authoritative Outbound Link

For more in-depth information on the scientific evidence surrounding coffee and its effects on the body, refer to the Mayo Clinic's expert answers on the topic: Coffee and health: What does the research say?

Frequently Asked Questions

There isn't a single combination, but popular versions include adding lemon juice and cinnamon, or combining healthy fats like MCT oil and butter. Other variations may incorporate apple cider vinegar or cayenne pepper.

While some ingredients like cinnamon and MCT oil may support metabolism and curb appetite, the hack is not a magic solution for weight loss. Experts emphasize that long-term, sustainable results are achieved through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

When diluted properly, adding a small amount of apple cider vinegar (ACV) is generally safe for most people. However, its acidic nature can irritate the stomach lining or damage tooth enamel, especially with frequent consumption or for those with acid reflux.

This is a variant of the coffee hack that suggests drinking black coffee within seven seconds of feeling hungry to help suppress appetite. There is limited scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the 7-second rule itself, but caffeine is a known appetite suppressant.

Yes, many people use the coffee hack to support intermittent fasting. As long as the added ingredients keep the calorie count under approximately 50 calories (typically without added sugar), it is generally considered acceptable within most fasting protocols.

Possible side effects can include over-caffeination, stomach irritation, or acid reflux, particularly when using acidic ingredients like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. It's best to start with small amounts and monitor your body's reaction.

To make the MCT oil and butter version, you combine brewed coffee with MCT oil (or coconut oil) and grass-fed butter or ghee. Blending these ingredients in a high-speed blender is key to creating a frothy, emulsified texture.