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Healthy People Shared These 8 Delicious Coffee Habits!

…Coffee, coffee, coffee, you’re the highlight of our days! 

There are many people out there, including myself, who can barely keep their eyes open in the morning without a warm and delicious cup of coffee. I sometimes go to bed thinking about what kind of drink I’m about to enjoy the next day.

Even though I would love to indulge in a caramel macchiato from Starbucks, I know that my jeans and my skin are going to hate me for that. Besides all these, the combination of sugar and caffeine can make me feel jittery and extremely agitated.

If you look on the Internet and search for the word “coffee”, you’ll notice that there are many articles in which they say that this drink is not healthy for you, while others say that it’s perfectly fine to consume it in moderation.

Unless you’re not adding whip cream, sugar, sweeteners, and syrups to it every day, or your doctor told you to stay away from it, there’s no reason why you can’t indulge in a nice and delicious cup of coffee.

Speaking of healthy, we wanted to tell you that there are a few ways you can make your drink even tastier and healthier for your body! If you want to learn how to make your beverage sweet, creamy, and also a fat-burning energy drink, this article is for you!

coffee
Photo by Buntovskikh Olga from shutterstock.com

8 Delicious Coffee Habits for Healthy People

1. Add cinnamon 

If you usually go to coffee shops, you’ve certainly seen the cinnamon on the milk counter, next to the sugar, lids, and straws.

Next time you see it, don’t ignore it and take advantage of it, because it is absolutely amazing for your health!

Cinnamon is a type of spice that is very high in antioxidants and it can speed up your metabolism, support gut health, and help in managing blood pressure. Besides that, this key ingredient is also anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral.

If you’re not fully convinced, adding cinnamon to your coffee will make your beverage taste sweeter without actually adding any sugar and calories.

…What do you think? Would you try adding cinnamon to your coffee?

2. Only use paper filters

In conformity with Jill Weisenberger, a registered dietitian nutritionist, the way you filter your coffee is very important. Even though it’s much easier and less wasteful to use reusable filters, they can do more harm than good when it comes to your health.

In order to reduce waste, you can buy recyclable paper filters. These work wonders for removing kahweol and cafestol, which are two compounds that are responsible for spiking up cholesterol levels.

3. Pick high-quality coffee beans 

…This one is extremely important if you’re looking for a rich and creamy flavor, without the “burned taste”!

I used to think that all types of coffee taste the same, but I was wrong. A friend of mine was really passionate about the whole process of making coffee, so he became a barista.

He thought me that coffee should have a subtle floral flavor and not taste like it’s burned. When the coffee beans come from several sources, the process takes a lot more time, in order to give off the impression that all of it comes from the same source.

If you want your coffee to taste the way it’s supposed to, you should only purchase single-origin coffee beans. Even though it’s more on the pricier side, the flavor is absolutely divine!

4. Use filtered water only

There are many people who think that since we boil the water to brew coffee, it doesn’t matter if it’s filtered or not. But that is not true. Even though you might not taste it, it’s a lot better for your health.

When you drink filtered water, you drink H2O that doesn’t contain heavy metals, such as copper or lead. These types of metal can be usually found in old pipes. Tap water is not good either, because it contains chlorine, a substance that can be harmful to your body in the long term.

coffee
Photo by lev radin from shutterstock.com

5. Skip your Keurig

In conformity with several health experts, Keurig machines are not as clean as you might think. That is because you’re actually exposed to plastic that’s been heated and besides that, they tend to get dirty pretty fast.

The water tanks in a device like this can never be properly cleaned and flushed, so they can be considered a great place for bacteria and mold to grow. Long story short, Keurigs coffee machines are not the best option to make your favorite beverage.

6. Give sparkling coffee a go

Sparkling water is actually a cold brew combined with mineral water, citrus, and even some herbs. Even though it might sound weird, it’s actually really tasty and also healthy for your gut.

Dan McLaughlin, the owner of the small-batch coffee roaster called Golden Triangle Coffee in Cleveland, shared a video on his TikTok account in which he showed his favorite recipe for sparkling coffee.

He added mineral water, a slice of orange, a fresh leaf of basil, and as much ice as was needed to fill up the glass. He let all these ingredients combine their flavors while he prepared his espresso shot.

Once the coffee was done, he added it on top of everything, stirred for a few seconds, and then enjoyed it. McLaughlin stated that he tried drinking sparkling coffee with grapefruit instead of orange and it was really good.

7. Try a golden latte 

It seems like lately, golden lattes are the star of Instagram, but this bright yellow drink is not only social media picture-worthy, it’s also very good for your health and immune system.

The key ingredient in turmeric lattes is turmeric, a spice that has many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and it can help improve several health issues, such as arthritis and symptoms of depression.

Several studies have discovered that adding turmeric to your coffee can make it even better for you. It can help prevent memory loss and you’ll benefit from its anti-inflammatory properties.

…Make sure to skip the extra sugar and cream, if you want your body to better absorb all these benefits! 

8. Stay away from creams and sugar 

Trust me, I love adding a ton of cream and caramel syrup into my morning coffee, or whipped cream into my afternoon coffee, aka dessert. However, I try to limit these quilty pleasures to special occasions only, because I don’t want to overindulge and mess with my body.

If you’re constantly adding toppings and sugary creams into your coffee, you’re actually ruining its properties. Besides that, you might develop cavities, gain fat around your stomach, experience a major sugar crash in your day, and also rely on sweets and processed things when you’re tired.

You can create your own milk at home, using nuts, such as cashews, almonds, walnuts, coconut, basically whatever type you like. Another tip we have for you is to stay away from artificial sweeteners, even though they might say “zero calories” on the packaging.

The reason why they’re not good for you is that they contain a lot of artificial and processed ingredients that can change your taste buds and can make you addicted in the long term.

CONCLUSION

To sum up this article, we can say that coffee is good for you, especially due to the fact that it contains antioxidants and it can help boost your physical performance, and reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, cancer, and stroke. 

If you want your coffee to taste good, but also get some health benefits out of it, make sure to stay away from sugar, syrups, and whipped cream. Make sure to try the sparkling coffee recipe we’ve previously talked about and tell us what you think about it in the comments section down below.

…If you want to know more about health and wellness, here is a great article for you:

8 Smoothies Targeted for Specific Health Issues

Which Smoothies Will Benefit You?

Every substantial smoothie contains two main ingredients: fruit and/or vegetables (often frozen) and a liquid, such as water, milk, fruit juice, or vegetable juice. Other possible options can include yogurt, nut butter, seeds, spices, herbs, and many more.

Usually, recipes can be tweaked to meet different dietary requirements or tastes, and these smoothies can be a perfect solution for those lacking in the nutrition department.

The great thing is that you can think you’re getting away with an extra dessert since smoothies look and taste like milkshakes. What’s even better is that you can combine the recipe to fit your many needs in a hassle-free way!

And even though they’re a quick and easy breakfast or snack that you can make and take with you as you run out to take care of errands, they can also be made to pack a nutritional punch if you don’t have time for dieting!

Depending on what ails you, you can create smoothies that improve your mood, give you extra energy, help boost your brainpower, and so many other health issues. Here’s a collection of 8 smoothies for good health to help you with whatever problems you may be having.

Get your blender ready, because these smoothie recipes will make your life so much easier!

smoothie
Photo by Alexandra Anschiz at Shutterstock

For Energy

Mango and Orange Smoothie
If you’re looking lagging during the day and you’ve already had your fair share of coffee, this is the perfect juicy option. Get the ingredients below and give them a swirl in your blender for a much-needed energy boost.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 3/4 cup of Mango: This is the king of fruits because it’s loaded with vitamin B and C, calcium, potassium, zinc, folate, and proteins for energy.
  • 1 Juiced Orange: These fruits are a powerhouse for energy and vitamin C. They contain phosphorus, minerals, and fibers for healthy body functioning.
  • 3/4 cup Greek Yogurt: It’s full of Vitamin B12, which is necessary for energy and healthy brain function
    2 Dates: A serving of dates contains 31 grams of carbs, making them an energy powerhouse.
  • 1/2 tsp Cinnamon: This will improve sensitivity to the hormone Insulin, one of the critical hormones regulating metabolism and energy.
  • 1 tbsp Agave: They have fructans and saponins for anti-inflammation.
    Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
Put all of your ingredients in a blender and blend until the smoothie is to your liking. Add ice for desired smoothness.

Boost Your Immunity

Blueberry Smoothie
There are three main ways to protect your immune system: Eating a healthy diet, Exercising, and Getting enough sleep. And while we can’t help you with the sleeping part, we can make a few suggestions on eating a healthy diet. Blueberries possess one of the highest amounts of antioxidants out of all fruits.

INGREDIENTS:

  • ½ cup Blueberries: They contain a flavonoid called anthocyanin, an antioxidant that can help boost your immune system. Berries are loaded with vitamins C and A, potassium, dietary fiber, and manganese.
  • ½ cup Pineapple: This is the ultimate natural cold fighter because it has the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain, which helps boost your immune system and fights against colds and flu in the wintertime.
  • 1 Banana: They contain Vitamin C to help bodies fight infections, along with B6 and Magnesium
  • ½ cup Kefir or Greek Yogurt: This is a great natural source of Vitamin B12, which contributes to the normal process of your immune system.
  • 2 tbsp Almond Butter: This butter is rich in Vitamin E, along with omega-3 fatty acids, plant sterols, and L-arginine.
  • 1 tbsp Reishi Powder: Reishi is the king of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It’sIt’s packed with antibacterial, antiviral properties and zinc, perfect for battling the common cold and flu and building a robust immune system.
  • 2 tbsp Oats: This is one of the healthiest grains you can eat. It contains selenium and zinc, two essential nutrients for warding off infection.
  • 1 tbsp Honey: Honey is known for its antimicrobial properties and is used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial agent.
  • 1 tsp Ginger: It has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. It’sIt’s a great antioxidant-rich food that can help combat inflammation and keep your immune system healthy.

DIRECTIONS:
Put all of these ingredients in a blender, and mix until smooth. For a thicker consistency, add ice and blend again.

Anti-Inflammatory

Cherry-Spinach Smoothie
This healthy smoothie boosts your daily dose of anti-inflammatory foods. You can fight inflammation from the inside out by concentrating on foods that have anti-inflammatory enzymes: foods like tomatoes, olive oil, leafy greens, fruits and berries, citrus, fish rich in omega-three fatty acids, ginger, garlic, and turmeric. More specifically, tart cherries, pineapple, and lemon because they are super potent in the anti-inflammatory department.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 cup Plain Low-Fat Kefir: It’s high in protein and probiotics that help reduce inflammation and even contains vitamin D for calcium.
  • 1 cup Cherries: Sweet and tart cherries contain antioxidants making them one of the top antioxidant-rich foods for reducing inflammation. They’re also a good source of potassium.
  • ½ cup Baby Spinach: They’re rich in vitamin K and help get rid of inflammation.
  • ¼ cup Mashed Ripe Avocado: This is an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fat and antioxidants, dampening your body’s inflammatory response.
  • 1 tbsp Almond Butter: It has good sources of vitamin E, which reduces inflammation and the risk of heart disease.
  • 1 (1/2 inch) Piece Peeled Ginger: This root has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties that boost your general immunity.
  • 1 tsp Chia Seeds: They have a high dose of Omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making them an anti-inflammatory food.

DIRECTIONS:
Place the kefir first into the blender. Put in the rest of your ingredients and puree them until their smooth. Garnish with some more chia seeds in your glass, if desired.

Do you suffer from chronic inflammation? We’ve got the perfect solution! Check out: Eat These 9 Foods to Reduce Inflammation in the Body!

smoothie
Photo by Sebastian Duda at Shutterstock

Weight Loss

Spicy Berry Smoothie
Consuming this smoothie for breakfast will aid you with your weight loss goals. And this one includes Chaga, which is an amazing appetite suppressant to help you feel full.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt: It’s rich in protein and improves your metabolism.
  • 1 cup Strawberries: They’re low in calories, and they are sodium, fat, and cholesterol-free. They are also packed with iron, copper, magnesium, and fiber to help you feel fuller.
  • 1 Banana: They’re healthy and nutritious, high in fiber, and low in calories. A banana reduces bloating, controls your appetite, and helps you lose weight.
  • 1 tbsp Chaga Powder: This powder is rich in vitamins and minerals. And it includes calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, and phosphorus.
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin: Cummin is loaded with antioxidants that can help to remove harmful free oxygen radicals from your body. It’s also a great vitamin A, C, copper, and manganese source.
  • 10 Almonds: Almonds contain a chock full of healthy fats, fiber, protein, magnesium, and Vitamin E. They can reduce hunger because they are incredibly satiating.
  • Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
Mix all of these yummy ingredients in your blender until you achieve a smooth texture. Add Ice for your desired smoothie consistency.

Sore Throat

TLC Smoothie
Despite what you might be thinking, TLC stands for: Turmeric, Lemon, and Cloves! Feeling sick is a horrible feeling, especially when you have a sore throat. It can hurt so bad that you don’t even feel like eating. Well, this TLC smoothie is the perfect solution!

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 Bananas: These are your perfect source of Vitamin B6 and Magnesium.
  • ½ cup Greek Yogurt: It’s a great source of lactobacillus, a probiotic that can help give your immune system a kick and inhibits the growth of any harmful gut bacteria
  • ½ cup Coconut Milk: It’s got antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the pain and irritation of a sore throat
  • ½ tsp Turmeric: It’s rich in vitamin C and vitamin B6, contains a potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Turmeric can also help fight infection and has anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve the symptoms of cough and cold
  • 2 tbsp Lemon juice: It’s great for sore throats because it can help break up mucus and relieve pain. Lemons are also jam-packed with Vitamin C and Vitamin B6.
  • ½ tsp ground Cloves: They’re full of antioxidants that help your body fight free radicals. They are also a terrific source of manganese, vitamin k, vitamin c, calcium, and magnesium which can help boost your health and immunity
  • 1 tsp MCT Oil: This oil can boost your immune system and fights off harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It also contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and thermogenic properties
  • ½ tsp Ginger: It’s an excellent antioxidant-rich food that can help fight inflammation and keeps your immune system healthy.
  • 1½ tbsp Honey: It’s known for its antimicrobial properties and is used as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial agent.
  • Optional: Mint
  • Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
Set all of your ingredients in a blender, and mix until smooth. For a thicker consistency, add ice and mix again. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Constipation

Pineapple Pear Smoothie
17% of the population suffers from constipation. It’s uncomfortable, you experience cramps, and it makes you feel bloated and gassy. And yes, you can easily take a laxative as a safe remedy. But if constipation occurs regularly and you’re still relying on laxatives, these laxatives can lead to serious health issues because they cause electrolyte disturbances, dehydration, and mineral deficiencies. And if they’re used long-term, they can permanently damage the digestive system. So why not try a daily drink that contains fiber, sorbitol, and water?

INGREDIENTS:

  • 1/2 cup Coconut Milk: It might have a laxative effect on you. People have even claimed that it can increase metabolism and help food pass faster through the body.
  • 1 cup Greek Yogurt: It contains probiotics that have live bacteria, good for your digestive system, and can help relieve constipation.
  • 3 Pineapple Rings: It’s incredible for constipation because it provides lots of fluids and water, helping the stool pass through. Pineapple also has bromelain enzyme, which helps improve your bowel function and controls regularity.
  • 1 1/2 Pears: They possess several compounds that improve digestion, including fiber, sorbitol, and fructose.
  • 1 tsp Coconut Oil: This oil cleanses your colon and helps restore lost vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. It will also help keep digestive and nutritional diseases in check.
  • 1 tsp Hemp Seeds: They’re a valuable source of nutrients that contain insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to your stool and helps food and waste pass through your gut more efficiently.
  • Optional: Mint: Mint is full of rich nutrients, fiber, Vitamin A, iron, and manganese. This herb may help relax an upset stomach while moving stool through the intestines.
  • Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
Toss all the delicious ingredients in your blender and mix well. Add some ice for a thicker texture. You can chop the mint and incorporate it into your drink.

If you’re always feeling constipated, we have some great advice that may help! Check out: Unhealthy Gut? Here Are The 9 Tricky Signs

smoothie
Photo by Teri Virbickis at Shutterstock

Detox

Kiwi Detox Smoothie
Are you thinking about doing a thorough detox today? Check out this tasty smoothie that will help eliminate toxins from your body, improve your overall health, and promote your weight loss goals. Just blend up this nutrient and antioxidant-filled beverage and help your body stimulate the cleansing process. Because your body can eliminate toxins on its own through the liver, kidneys, digestive system, skin, and lungs, only when these organs are healthy can they effectively do their jobs to eliminate any unwanted substances.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 peeled Kiwi: They’re high in dietary fiber and antioxidants, rich in Vitamin C and B9, and low in calories. They’re very beneficial for your heart health, digestive health, and immunity.
  • 1/2 Lemon: We already know that they’re high in Vitamin C, aiding the immune system. They help your body flush out toxins, aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and cleanse your system.
  • 5 Celery stalks: Celery is rich in vitamin K. It contains many anti-inflammatory substances that help lower inflammation and support healthy liver function and digestion.
  • 1/2 Cucumber: They’re a natural diuretic that helps the body flush out toxins and water. They also help fight inflammation and contain essential vitamins like Vitamins B for stress and Vitamins C for antioxidants.
  • 1/2 tsp grounded Ginger: It can cleanse your body by stimulating digestion and circulation. Its digestive actions can cleanse the build-up of waste and toxins in the colon and liver.
  • 1 tsp Chia Seeds: They create a gelatinous effect when added to water or digested, and they cleanse your insides by collecting toxins on their way out.
  • 2 tbsp chopped Parsley: Parsley is wealthy in chlorophyll, which improves detoxification and supports weight loss.
  • Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
Include all of these healthy ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth. Add ice if desired.

Memory

Apple Smoothie for Better Focus
Research shows that when you consume apple juice, it increases the production of neurotransmitters in your brain, improving your focus and memory. And if you were to add some Chaga into the mix, then you’ve got yourself an excellent energy-boosting smoothie.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 Apples: They’re an excellent source of slow-release energy, and they contain vitamin B, C, and potassium to give you that much-needed growth.
  • 1 Banana: These are the best foods to consume for energy. They’re an excellent source of carbs, potassium, and vitamin B6, all of which help boost energy levels in your body.
  • 1 1/2 cup frozen Broccoli: This green veggie contains Vitamin K and sulforaphane, which helps to strengthen and improve your cognitive abilities. It also has Choline which helps improve your memory.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice: Lemons are amazing detoxifiers and will cleanse your blood, liver, and kidneys, which means they increase your energy levels.
  • 3/4 cup Almond Milk: This milk is packed with vitamin E and magnesium, and it contains lots of protein for sustained energy.
  • 2 chopped Dates: A serving of power-packed dates contains 31g of carbohydrates, making them a powerhouse of energy.
  • 1 tsp Chaga Powder: This Energy King is rich in fiber and essential nutrients, including vitamin D, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and calcium. It’s also been proven to fight inflammation, lower blood sugar, reduce blood pressure, alleviate arthritis, and prevent or slow down the advancement of cancer.
  • Optional: Ice

DIRECTIONS:
We suggest you blend the almond milk and broccoli first. Then add the rest of your yummy ingredients and mix until their smooth. Add ice at your discretion in order to reach your desired smoothie consistency.

Give these deliciously healthy smoothies a try, and watch your ailments disappear! If you DO happen to give them a try, make sure to let us know of your progress in the comments section below!

And if you liked our article about smoothies, you should check out: Are You Getting Enough Vitamin B6? Here Are 5 Important Benefits

11 Reasons Why Drinking Coffee Daily Is So Good

coffee tips
Photo by Aumnuaysin Pookraksa from shutterstock.com

We have all heard about how coffee, despite all its benefits, can end up being bad for our health. And while there are people who end up becoming addicted to drinking coffee, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying your cup of joe every morning! If anything, it turns out that having a cup of coffee every day can be beneficial for your health.

And we aren’t just talking about the energizing effect that caffeine has on all of us. There have been studies that show that continuous coffee drinking (but not in excess), has a number of health benefits. From the antioxidant properties of coffee to increased longevity and better brain health, there are lots of benefits we haven’t even heard of!

Here we have compiled some of the most fascinating facts about why drinking coffee is good for you! Next time someone says that drinking coffee every day is bad for your health, you will have enough reasons to explain to them that they might just be wrong on this one!

Let us know which one of these things related to drinking coffee surprised you and which ones you already knew about!

10 Common Beverages You Should Avoid

beverage
Photo by Caterina Trimarchi from shutterstock.com

…How many beverages do you consume in a day?

From sugary smoothies that are considered to be “better for you”, and sports drinks that are meant to replenish the electrolytes lost during a workout, to energy drinks that are labeled as organic and sugar-free, the beverages aisle from the grocery store definitely gets bigger each year.

Even though you might be tempted to grab one of those drinks when you are in a rush and water doesn’t sound appealing, the truth is that these “healthy” beverages are actually not that healthy.

That is because they contain a lot of artificial sweeteners meant to replace the original white sugar that gives the flavor. Several studies have discovered that sugar-sweetened beverages are actually the number one source of added sugars in the American diet and lifestyle.

Consumed in moderation, these beverages won’t hurt you, but if you drink them constantly, your health system is going to suffer. We’ve talked to a few nutritionists and health experts about this topic, so we came up with 10 common beverages you should avoid as much as possible.

7 Sources of Caffeine Other Than Coffee

What’s YOUR Main Source Of Caffeine?

Sleep deprivation is becoming a habit among many Americans. And experts say that more people are using coffee as an energy crutch than ever before.

But it’s not all bad news. In fact, 250mg of caffeine per day, that’s two to three cups of coffee, wakes up the brain and improves concentration. However, if your intake is turning into an addiction, you may begin to notice some side effects.

That includes dehydration, anxiety, and an upset stomach. To be honest, it’s hard to imagine a morning without a freshly brewed cup o’ Joe.

Universal as it may be, there are many OTHER natural sources of caffeine that can help you get your boost without all the extras found in that caramel macchiato.

Keep reading with us to find out what they are!

caffeine
Photo by Danijela Maksimovic at Shutterstock

Guarana

Guarana is created from the seeds of a Brazilian shrub found in the Amazon basin and is used as a tonic or stimulant. Amazonian tribes used to brew the guarana plant seeds to make an energy drink, and for hundreds of years, Brazilians have used it as a refreshing tonic.

The seeds possess four times more caffeine than coffee, making Guarana the most caffeine-rich plant globally. You can find Guarana in tablets and capsules, either on its own or combined with other ingredients, frequently with ginseng.

You will also find it in the form of drinks and smoothies. It contains up to six times the amount of caffeine or 200% of what is found in coffee beans.

If you’re looking for another natural source of caffeine besides coffee, Guarana packs a heavy punch. Its benefits include increased energy, weight loss aid, and decreased body fat.

Chocolate

Make no mistake, the stimulant levels in chocolate are not even close when compared to your regular cup of coffee. But it’s found naturally in cocoa beans, so any chocolate has a bit of that stimulant. Candy bars generally have less than 10mg, but the darker the chocolate, the higher the caffeine amount.

A Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate Bar has a massive 31mg, almost as much as a can of Coke! Some chocolate is even fortified with added caffeine for an energy boost. Take the limited edition Snickers Charge for example, which has 60mg of caffeine, about the same as a cup of tea.

Soda

Many soda drinks come with our favorite alkaloid compound in them. If you’re a fan of Cola, then you are already consuming some extra caffeine without even knowing it. For every 350ml, you get between 30 and 50mg of that delicious alkaloid. Cola gets its flavor from the Kola nut, which contains caffeine naturally.

Other sodas like Mountain Dew are also well-known caffeinated culprits, but others play less apparent roles in your daily caffeine intake.

A few brands of root beer, such as Barq’s, even contain it. Both the regular and diet flavors have 23mg per 12oz can, just 12mg less than a can of Coke. Sunkist’s orange soda has a surprising 41mg of caffeine, and A&W Cream Soda has around 25mg.

Black Tea

Black tea is an amazing alternative to coffee. We already know that tea comes with a certain level of caffeine in it. But you can get around 30 to 70mg of caffeine per cup with black tea. Thanks to the level of antioxidants in black tea, you also get plenty of health benefits.

Black tea is excellent for improving your gut health, regulating blood pressure, and reducing your cholesterol. This tea is one of the most popular types of tea, and that’s why people frequently talk about the amount of caffeine in it.

Though the consistency of black tea fluctuates based on the time you soak it in water. Generally, most tea manufacturers don’t list down the amount of this stimulant on their labels. However, the Lipton regular has an exceptional case. They list their caffeine amount at 55 mg per serving.

caffeine
Photo by Danijela Maksimovic at Shutterstock

Matcha

This is a finely ground powder that’s made from green tea leaves. Unique in its development process, Matcha is shade-grown for about 3 weeks before it gets harvested, and the stems and veins are extracted in processing.

Matcha contains a unique polyphenol, EGCG, that has been proven to improve metabolism and help in weight loss. It contains about 30 to 40mg of caffeine per serving, with a less jittery and clean caffeine feeling than coffee.

The energy you get from Matcha is longer-lasting since it also contains the amino acid L-theanine. As with green tea, L-theanine slows the release of caffeine and induces a soothing, calming effect. Other benefits include: May reduce the risk of cancer and chronic disease. And can also improve your mental health.

Alcoholic Energy Drinks

A bunch of alcoholic energy drinks were reformulated, and some even pulled from the shelves after investigators deduced that the products were being marketed for underage drinkers.

The Center For Science In The Public Interest ended up suing MillerCoors in order to stop selling the beverage Sparks, which, according to a lab analysis commissioned by a Miami TV news station, contained a shocking 214mg of caffeine per 16oz can, about the same as 6 cans of Coke.

Anheuser-Busch stopped making fruit-flavored beer Bud Extra, which had 55mg of caffeine, about the same as a cup of tea, and also the malt beverage: Tilt.

Caffeine Mints

Mints are excellent when you’re looking for some refreshment. The ones with caffeine are even better because they can simultaneously provide you with that refreshment AND the stimulant you need.

Each of these mints contains up to 40mg of caffeine. So when you take in 2 energy mints, you can get the same energy you would if you were to gulp down one cup of coffee.

But be aware of the health risks involved. Don’t overdo it on the mints because it’s easy to go overboard on them.

You wouldn’t want to load your body with more alkaloids than what’s recommended. Jolt Cola, for example, which had the maximum amount of caffeine allowed in colas before it was reformulated as an energy drink, also sells caffeinated gum and mints.

Three of Penguin’s caffeinated mints also equal the caffeine content of a cup of coffee, and just one Foosh mint contains that same jolt.

caffeine
Photo by portumen at Shuttertock

Final Thoughts

Did you know that caffeine can be hidden? If you want to cut back, you’ve probably already reduced your amount of coffee, tea, and soda intake. But the sly stimulant can pop up in other unexpected foods and drinks.

Since the FDA doesn’t require manufacturers to list caffeine range on nutrition labels, it’s usually hard to tell whether a product HAS the stimulant and how much of it. And don’t be fooled by decaf. The name implies that this cup of joe has all the taste you love but without the added alkaloid.

Well, Consumer Reports state that they tested 36 cups of decaf coffee from six brands, including Starbucks and Dunkin’s. Compared to the caffeine you can find in a regular cup, generally around 100mg, the decaf samples had less, but some crammed in over 20mg.

So how’s YOUR coffee intake looking? While we’re all dependent on that delicious cup of Joe, we should consume it in moderation. And for those that can’t go a day without 12 cups, try a mint or two and see if you can’t get your consumption levels down!

If you found this article helpful, we also suggest reading: 10 Miraculous Disease Fighting Foods You’re Missing Out On

12 Signs You’re Way Too Dehydrated

too dehydrated
Image By Prostock-studio From Envato Elements

…How do I know if am I too dehydrated? 

I am sure that all of us know that it is recommended to drink at least 2 liters of water a day or half a gallon. The benefits are numerous, such as nice, glowing, healthy-looking skin, having more energy, eating fewer calories, which leads to weight loss, proper function of your organs, and so many other things.

If you are not drinking enough water throughout the day, your cells can’t do their job the way they should. This is why people can only survive for three or five days (if you’re lucky) without H2O.

Sadly, a lot of adults and kids don’t consume as many fluids as they should, which can point to a medical condition called chronic dehydration.

There are also other factors that can lead to extreme dehydration, such as excessive sweating, diarrhea, vomiting, working out too much, or staying in the sun for a long period of time.

According to scientists, long-term dehydration can lead to several health issues and it can even be life-threatening in some cases. With that being said, it is very important to consume the right amount of water for your own specific needs.

There are many indicators that show you if you are too dehydrated and in today’s article, we will talk about 12 of these symptoms.

8 Easy Tips to Make Your Coffee Super Healthy

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Many of us start our morning with a good, hot, well-deserved cup of coffee. It’s a good booster to help us begin our day, but not everyone knows that besides being an energy drink, it’s a healthy beverage.

A lot of scientists agree on the fact that it may even be one of the healthiest drinks in the world. Some researchers have even concluded that it may help lower the risks of liver diseases and prevent diabetes. If you are a coffee lover, you should know these helpful tips to make your coffee the healthiest drink you’ve ever had!

You won’t believe number 5!

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1. Don’t drink it after 2 P.M.

Coffee is an amazing drink! We love it because of its incredible taste, it gives us a lot of energy and helps us make it through the day. That being said, it’s not a good idea to have another one after 2 P.M. It can have a bad influence on your sleeping schedule. And, if you didn’t know this, bad sleep will negatively affect your health.

Do you know how doctors always say that one of the key aspects of having a healthy lifestyle is good sleep? Well, they are right, and having an energy drink after 2 or 3 P.M. will interfere with it.

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2. Don’t load it with tons of sugar

Doctors and scientists always say that sugar is the worst ingredient you can possibly have in your alimentation. It contributes to many illnesses and it’s far from healthy. Keep in mind that sugar is the main cause of diabetes and obesity, so, it’s best to avoid it as much as possible.

Many people are saying that coffee is bad for your body, but the thing that makes it harmful is adding sugar to it. In addition, it also takes away its natural taste and makes it less intense. Therefore, you should really reconsider the sugar quantities that you put into your coffee.

After all, it’s in your best interest.

coffee tips
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3. Don’t go for just any brand

Sometimes, paying more money for a product is a must, especially when it comes to foods and drinks because more money can sometimes mean better quality.

There will always be less qualitative, yet affordable brands on the market, but make sure you choose the best product. You should go for an organic brand, something you know is safely made.

Why am I saying this? Well, some producers tend to spray the beans with chemicals that aren’t supposed to be eaten by us. It’s no surprise they tend to put toxic things on their crops, it’s a tale as long as time.

You should just try your best and avoid it.

coffee tips
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4. Don’t drink too much coffee

That sounds like silly advice, doesn’t it? Yes, it does, but the key to enjoying a healthy beverage is moderation. If you are drinking too much coffee on a normal day, it can reduce its health benefits.

Too much caffeine can have several side effects, however, that varies from person to person. Make sure you know your own tolerance levels and you don’t cross any limits of yours. It’s important in life to have a balance in all sorts of things and activities.

That way you can enjoy stuff without facing negative effects of any kind.

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5. Add some cinnamon 

Cinnamon is a very good ingredient for your coffee, and that is for two reasons. Firstly, it gives an amazing taste and flavor to the whole beverage. And secondly, it has HUGE health benefits. Some studies have shown that cinnamon can slow the aging process, lower blood glucose in diabetes, and reduce free radical damage.

Cinnamon is one of the few ingredients that improve your condition, and has a heavenly taste! So, don’t waste any more time and buy as much cinnamon as you possibly can. It’s not every day that a good and tasty ingredient also happens to be extremely good for your body.

coffee tips
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6. You shouldn’t use low-fat or artificial creamers

We know how delicious coffee can get if you add low-fat cream or milk to it. However, and you’re not gonna like this, it’s really not good for your body, especially if you use low-fat or artificial products.

These are usually highly processed, and their ingredients are far from good for your body. Go ahead and use natural products, since these are a better choice for your body and health. It may seem strange that a low-fat product can be worse for your body, but a full-fat one is the exact opposite.

But the thing is, they are low-fat because of the toxic ingredients they add to them. Choosing a product that’s from grass-fed cows will also prevent the risk of osteoporosis.

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7. You should also add some cocoa

Just like cinnamon, cocoa has its health benefits. Scientists say that it can even reduce the risk of heart disease. But, besides that, the most important part is that it can be a tasty substitute for sugar.

So, if you’re a dark chocolate lover, you can just add some cocoa powder and have an amazing flavored beverage. Add some cinnamon to it, and just like that, your morning is complete. In addition, cocoa is a big plus, because it’s another example of a tasty ingredient with major benefits for your well-being.

Your drink will be better than what Starbucks has to offer!

coffee tips
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8. Brew your coffee and use a paper filter

Brewed coffee has its disadvantages. It contains cafestol, and that means it can raise cholesterol levels in your blood. But there’s a way of making the situation better. By using a paper filter, it will lower the amount of cafestol.

That way it will let the beneficial antioxidants and caffeine pass through, making your beverage the best when it comes to health benefits. That buzz that you feel in the morning has its advantages and disadvantages, one of them being the high levels of cholesterol in your blood.

If you don’t have any paper filters, you can buy some here: Coffee Filters

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Final Words

The bottom line is we love coffee, we’ve spent our entire lives drinking it, and we can’t imagine our mornings without it. What’s even more amazing about this drink is that there are ways of making it a healthy beverage.

It came as a surprise to us as well that these things can improve the drink, and our health as well. I mean we wouldn’t have been too fond of the idea that we should give up coffee as well, and so these tips are a helpful way of enjoying it.

If you liked this article, you may also like: 12 Signs You’re Not As Healthy as You Think