Are you a coffee addict? Do you start your day with a steaming hot cup of Joe or a sugary frappe? If so, then this article is for you. We will explore coffee’s unique and fascinating aspects, from the benefits to the drawbacks, and offer some tips to enjoy it healthier.
Let’s start with the basics. Why do we drink coffee? Well, it’s for two reasons: caffeine and polyphenols. Caffeine gives us that initial energy boost, while polyphenols are natural compounds found in coffee that have been linked to numerous health benefits.
But did you know that adding milk to your coffee can negate some benefits? That’s right. Milk proteins bind to the polyphenols, making them unavailable to feed your gut buddies, those helpful bacteria living in your gut that aid digestion and promote overall health.
So, what do you do? There are alternatives to dairy milk, like coconut milk or macadamia nut creamer, which will not bind to those polyphenols. You could also try adding a sweetener like allulose for a touch of sweetness. But whatever you do, skip the almond or oat milk. Almond milk is made from peels and whole almonds containing lectins, and oats are high in glyphosate, a cancer-causing chemical.
Now, let’s talk about the darker the coffee, the less polyphenols it contains. So, to get the most out of your coffee, go for a lighter roast or, at worst, a medium roast. And if you want to take it to the next level, boil your coffee all day. The longer the grounds are in contact with the water, the more polyphenols are in your cup.
But here’s the catch: the Italians have it figured out. Most Baristas in Italy will cut you off from cappuccinos after 10 am because milk is a no-no. So, if you must have foam, try an espresso macchiato, a dollop of foam on the top, instead of a sugary, whipped-cream-topped frappe.
Now, here’s a short, humorous story to illustrate the impact of this topic. My friend, let’s call her Sarah, used to order a caramel latte every day on her way to work. One day, her gut buddies couldn’t take it and rebelled against her. She developed terrible digestive issues and had to give up her favorite morning beverage and switch to a healthier alternative. Now, she can’t believe how much better she feels and wonders why she didn’t switch sooner.
In conclusion, coffee can be a healthy beverage option, but only if you consume it correctly. Skip the dairy milk, opt for a lighter roast, and consider boiling your coffee all day for maximum polyphenol uptake. And if you must add a sweetener or creamer, choose natural alternatives like allulose or coconut milk. Your gut buddies will thank you, and you may even feel better.
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Summary of Transcript:
This video discusses how adding milk to coffee can negate the benefits of the polyphenols in coffee. Polyphenols are essential for gut health and uncoupling mitochondria, which helps to improve overall health. Dairy-free options for creamer, such as coconut or macadamia milk, are healthier alternatives than almond or oat milk, which can harm gut health. Italians typically only drink cappuccinos in the morning and switch to drinking espresso or macchiato later in the day. Boiling coffee all day is a brilliant idea to increase the uptake of polyphenols. Choosing lighter roasts of coffee is also better for polyphenol content. Finally, donating blood regularly has been shown to increase lifespan.
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