If you’re reading this, it’s safe to say you’re probably looking to lower your cholesterol. Whether it’s on the higher side already or getting to that point, it’s never too late to start keeping an eye on your heart health. You may have already consulted with your doctor or cardiologist to talk about lifestyle changes and medications; however, there’s one morning drink that you may want to consider adding to your routine if you haven’t already.
According to John Hopkins Medicine, a normal amount of cholesterol for adults is less than 200 mg/dL and a high level is above 250 mg/dL. With cholesterol, it’s important to consider other factors such as other risk factors, age and underlying health conditions.
Ahead, we spoke with a cardiologist about the morning drink that can help lower cholesterol. Hint: Many people already drink several cups of it daily (maybe even more than one) for some.
This Morning Drink Can Help Lower Your Cholesterol, According to Cardiologists
Black coffee without cream and sugar. Yes, you read that right. Black coffee without the cream and sugar may help lower your cholesterol.
“Black coffee itself has very few calories and no fats or sugars, so it doesn’t contribute to weight gain, saturated fat intake or added sugars—all of which can raise cholesterol over time,” says Dr. Deepak Talreja, internal medicine cardiologist and director of cardiology at Sentara Health. “When you skip the cream and sugar, you’re avoiding two common culprits—cream adds saturated fat which can raise LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and sugar, which adds empty calories and can worsen triglycerides.”
So, while coffee isn’t a cholesterol-lowering medicine, drinking it black is a healthier choice compared to sweetened or high-fat coffee drinks, Dr. Talreja adds.
Related: Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP
How To Prepare Your Morning Coffee With Cholesterol in Mind
According to Dr. Talreja, research has shown a mixed relationship between coffee and cholesterol. “Filtered coffee (like drip coffee) generally does not raise cholesterol,” he explains. “On the flipside, unfiltered coffee (like French press or espresso) contains natural oils called cafestol and kahweol that can raise LDL cholesterol if consumed in large amounts.”
If you’re monitoring your cholesterol levels, then you’ll want to pay more attention to how you brew your morning cup of joe—Keurig machines are general safe bets (plus, they’re quick and easy).
Other Morning Drinks To Help Lower Your Cholesterol
Some people don’t like the taste of coffee or how it makes them feel (jittery, anxious, etc.) If that sounds familiar, then you may be on the hunt for other morning drinks that can help lower cholesterol levels.
For starters, Dr. Talreja recommends green tea for those looking for an antioxidant-filled beverage in the morning. “Green tea contains antioxidants (catechins) that have been linked to lower LDL cholesterol.”
Additionally, instead of using whole milk for your morning cup of coffee, you could try soy milk instead, as soy protein can modestly reduce LDL, according to Dr. Talreja.
Related: High Cholesterol Can Be Genetic—Here’s How To Know if That’s the Case for You
Although black coffee without cream and sugar can potentially help lower cholesterol, it’s important to keep in mind that coffee isn’t for everyone. “Those with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart rhythm problems [should steer clear of coffee] since caffeine can raise heart rate and blood pressure,” says Dr. Talreja.
Aside from that, those who are sensitive to caffeine should probably avoid it as much as possible as it may cause anxiety, poor sleep or stomach upset.
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This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 16, 2025, where it first appeared in the Health & Wellness section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.