Get Your Coffee Buzz With A Healthier Bean
Coffee is America’s favorite (and most consumed) beverage, even above water! According to the National Coffee Association, nearly 60% of U.S. adults drink coffee on a daily basis. From espresso to cold brew, coffee has become a dietary staple across many cultures in all areas of the world. It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience.
Although high in caffeine (which can be too stimulating for some), well-sourced coffee has a long list of health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, coffee also provides a small amount of B vitamins, potassium and magnesium - heart-healthy nutrients that boost energy, fat burn, cognitive function and physical performance while slowing the aging process, and fighting diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Like everything, not all coffee is created equal. Here are the terms to look for when sourcing your beans:
Organic - this is a must! Coffee is one of the heaviest sprayed crops. Avoid energy-zapping, hormone-disrupting, inflammatory chemicals by ALWAYS buying organic beans.
Mycotoxin-free - nearly 50% of homes in America have experienced water damage and, as a result, mold issues are on the rise. If you are constantly bloated, achy and inflamed with chronic fatigue, frequent headaches and skin issues (acne, rashes, itchiness, eczema, etc.), you may want to consider eliminating mold-forming foods (such as conventional coffee, peanuts/peanut butter and yeast) from your diet. Not ready to give up coffee? Just look for mycotoxin (aka mold) free beans!
Low acid - the combination of caffeine and acidity found in coffee can easily trigger acid reflux and indigestion-related symptoms such as heartburn, nausea and bloating. Low acid beans are stomach-friendly and easier to tolerate for sensitive individuals.
Arabica - smoother and sweeter in flavor, arabica (shade-grown) beans are lower in caffeine with a higher concentration of health-boosting compounds.
Organic coffee is available at most grocery stores; however, the other qualifications are not as easy to come by. I recommend shopping online to find a brand that you trust, enjoy and feel good about consuming. Two of my personal favorites are Purity and Bulletproof.
Although most people can handle 2-3 cups of coffee per day, if you’re pregnant, a slow metabolizer of caffeine, or have adrenal fatigue, anxiety, acid reflux, imbalanced blood sugar, an overactive bladder or insomnia, I recommend limiting your intake to no more than 2 cups per day or switching to matcha (green tea). With less than half the caffeine of a traditional cup of Joe, matcha also contains l-theanine, an amino acid (protein) that promotes stabilizes blood sugar and promotes a more balanced and sustained buzz.
Happy sipping!
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