The pro’s and con’s of coffee

I simply adore coffee. Before I even had tasted my first cup, I had fallen in love with the smell of my father brewing it. After I tried it, my interest only grew. One of my early jobs was at a coffeehouse called Zuzu’s (for those who can remember that far back, it was where The Russell now operates) and before I could work on the floor, I had to take an intensive training course on the coffee growing regions, roasting process, and every other aspect that you can imagine about this little bean.

After all is said and done, who doesn’t love a good cup of coffee? There is just something so “addicting” about it! Then you start to read the news. And news, like religion, can be used to justify any point of view, making the benign subject of your morning beverage into somewhat of a controversial issue. Some pro’s: contains antioxidants, may protect your brain in your older age, contributes to a lower risk for type 2 diabetes, lower risk of liver disease, lower risk of depression and suicide and might even help you to live longer. Now for the pro’s: can cause anxiety and problems with sleeping, and here’s the shocker, can be addicting (!?). So maybe you want to read more: http://authoritynutrition.com/coffee-good-or-bad/ or maybe you are interested in some alternative beverages that will satisfy you in the same way.

Hot Maca: A few tablespoons of maca powder blended in a cup of warm (note: if you add to HOT liquid, then it loses its benefits) almond or coconut milk, with a dollop of raw honey and cinnamon could give you the lift you need in the morning. Maca has adrenal boosting properties, reduces stress, is rich in vitamin B vitamins, C, and E. It provides plenty of calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and amino acids, promote sexual function of both men and women, relieves menstrual issues and menopause, balances your mood, clear acne and blemishes and assists in general health.

Dandelion Herbal Coffee Blend: Roasted dandelion, chicory root and maca combined together can give you the taste you crave, but in a different package. Dandelion rich source of beta-carotene that our bodies convert into vitamin A. It's also rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, B complex vitamins, trace minerals, organic sodium, and even vitamin D as well as containing more protein than spinach. Chicory root supports digestive functions and the liver, high in antioxidants and toxic to harmful organisms.

Matcha Green Tea: These are nutrient-rich young leaves picked from the tips of shade-grown Camellia sinensis plants. They are high in antioxidants, loaded with catechin, helps you to relax, boosts memory, increased endurance, burns calories, detoxifies the body, strengthens immune system and lowers cholesterol levels. Plus, it’s all the rage these days.

Or, if you want to stick with your standby cup of joe, I wouldn’t blame you. However, I might suggest a small tweak to your morning routine. Go organic and fair trade. It’s better for your body, the coffee farmer, and the world. And try to trade in your traditional coffee brewer (which boils the grounds and makes your coffee taste bitter) for a french press, aeropress, or chemex and experience the real flavor of coffee. And NEVER, add sugar to a good cup!