Ways To Make Your Morning Coffee Healthier
A morning cup of joe is a staple for many people to get their day started. Whether it's hot, iced, light, or dark, coffee can be consumed in a variety of ways. Depending on how you fix it, it can even be good for you, too. According to WebMD, a growing amount of research suggests that there are potential health benefits to coffee, including decreased chances of developing chronic illnesses like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Researchers are still studying the cause and effect when it comes to the preventative perks coffee may have. Dr. Frank Hu, an expert in nutrition and epidemiology, tells WebMD, "The vast majority of those studies have shown a benefit of coffee on the prevention of diabetes. And now there is also evidence that decaffeinated coffee may have the same benefit as regular coffee."
Coffee beans are also rich with micronutrients including antioxidants, B vitamins, potassium, and riboflavin (per Cleveland Clinic). But doctors warn that overconsumption can lead to risks like dehydration, too much caffeine, and interference with sleep.
How to make it healthier
It's possible to keep your caffeine routine healthy by staying mindful of how it's prepared. The most common mistake is loading coffee with added sugars and artificial creamers (via Healthline). If you don't like the taste of black coffee, try natural sweeteners and either whole milk or plant-based milk as a creamer in order to avoid highly processed ingredients.
"Opting for low-calorie natural sweeteners, like stevia (available at most coffee shops now) or monk fruit, is a great way to sweeten up your coffee without adding excess sugar and calories," says registered dietician Maryann Walsh to Eat This, Not That!. "Many plant-based creamers made with coconut or almond milk are formulated in a way that makes them lower in calories and fat, and there are often numerous fun flavors to choose from."
Another nutritionist-approved coffee hack is adding cinnamon. Not only is it a flavor booster, but cinnamon also has potential health benefits. Some studies suggest it can stabilize blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease, notes Women's Health.
Coffee has micronutrients on its own, but a helpful supplement is collagen powder. Taken in moderation, the easily dissolvable protein may support joint and bone health and healthy hair, skin, and nails (per Mindbodygreen). Holley Samuel, a registered dietician, explains to Livestrong, "Various brands offer different types of collagen and therefore different benefits. As a dietitian, I recommend looking for grass-fed or pasture-raised sources of collagen from brands with superior quality standards."