Move over, Bulletproof – there’s a new brew in town, and it’s giving your morning cup a high-protein glow-up. Meet Proffee, the coffee-and-protein hybrid that’s got fitness fans, busy professionals, and breakfast skippers alike singing its praises. But is it just another fad, or is there real substance behind the sippable hype? We asked Lila Bruk, a registered dietitian and functional nutritionist based in Illovo, Johannesburg, to weigh in.
What exactly is proffee?
Proffee is pretty much what it sounds like. “Proffee is a combination of protein powder and coffee – typically, brewed coffee mixed with a protein supplement like a ready-to-drink shake or protein powder,” explains Lila. Think of it as your daily caffeine hit supercharged with a protein boost.
It differs from other trendy coffee concoctions like Bulletproof coffee, which mixes black coffee with butter or MCT oil for a high-fat, low-carb energy boost. “Thus proffee focuses on protein intake rather than fat for energy and satiety,” she says. So, if butter in your coffee made you raise an eyebrow, proffee might feel like a more approachable option.
The perks of starting your day with proffee
There’s a reason proffee has taken off – it’s convenient, tasty, and surprisingly functional. “Caffeine from coffee gives you that morning energy boost, while protein keeps you fuller for longer, helping prevent energy crashes,” says Lila.
Other benefits?
– It’s a quick, no-fuss way to get more protein (especially if you tend to skip breakfast).
– It supports muscle recovery and maintenance if you’re hitting the gym.
– And yes, it’s a lot more exciting than a plain protein shake.
Does the type of protein matter?
Absolutely. The protein you pick can change the nutritional impact of your proffee. Lila breaks it down:
– Whey protein: “Quickly absorbed and rich in essential amino acids — great for muscle recovery and growth.”
– Plant-based proteins: Ideal for vegans or those avoiding dairy. “They may be slightly lower in some amino acids and more likely to have an aftertaste that may not be appealing with coffee,” she notes.
– Collagen peptides: A fan favourite for skin and joint health. But beware: “They aren’t a complete protein source for muscle building.”
Also, check your labels. “Some protein powders contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or other ingredients that can affect overall calorie, carbohydrate, and fat content,” warns Lila.
Are there any downsides?
As with any trend, proffee isn’t perfect. Lila points out a few things to watch for:
– Too much caffeine: “If you’re adding protein to multiple coffees a day, you could easily exceed safe caffeine levels.”
– Tummy troubles: “Some protein powders, especially those with added fibres or sugar alcohols, may cause bloating or discomfort.”
– Lack of balance: Replacing breakfast with just proffee might leave you missing out on essential nutrients like fibre, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Can proffee help with weight loss or muscle gains?
“It can… when used strategically,” says Lila. For weight management, the combo of caffeine and protein helps keep you feeling satisfied, potentially reducing mid-morning snack attacks.
For muscle growth, pair your proffee with a proper breakfast. “Adding carbs like oats, fruit, or toast provides the energy needed for workouts and supports muscle protein synthesis,” she explains.
Just remember: Proffee is a boost, not a full meal. Use it to complement a balanced diet, not replace it.
Fancy a sip? try these tasty proffee recipes
Whether you’re team hot or iced, Lila offers these easy blends to get you started:
1. Classic Iced Proffee
– 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
– 1 scoop vanilla whey protein
– Ice cubes
– Blend or shake until frothy
2. Mocha Morning Boost
– 1 cup hot coffee
– 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
– A splash of milk (dairy or plant-based)
– Whisk or blend for a creamy mocha feel
3. Vegan Vanilla Latte Proffee
– 1 cup iced coffee
– 1 scoop plant-based vanilla protein
– ½ cup almond milk
– Stir and serve over ice
Pro tips from Lila:
– “Use unsweetened milks to control sugar content.”
– “Choose protein flavours that work with coffee — vanilla, chocolate, cookies and cream, or caramel.” (Skip the fruity ones — no one wants strawberry latte.)
– “For hot proffee, mix your protein with a little cool liquid first to avoid clumping.”
So there you have it – proffee is more than just a trendy TikTok blend. With the right ingredients and a bit of label-reading savvy, it can be a powerful (and delicious) addition to your morning routine.
