Wednesday, May 11, 2011
As an avid coffee drinker, I know that people drink this beverage in a variety of ways. Many of us prefer it in a very unhealthy way, that is, loaded with sugar or creamer or both! Some of us also replace breakfast with this beverage which is another unhealthy habit. Well, for those individuals who prefer their pick-me-up with some flavor, you are in luck. There are many simple solutions for adding guiltless options to your cup-o-joe that you may find rivals your â??super mocha loverâ??s grande frappe whipâ?â?¦or whatever concoction is your fancy! Be creative; many of the options below can be combined for whatever coffee occasion strikes! Remember not to get too much of a good thingâ?¦excessive caffeine consumption has a number of potential negative effects. All of these coffee ideas may be prepared with decaff as well.
Tea: there are lots of caffeine-free teas that may be put in a fresh cup of coffee and add plenty of flavor to your mix! My personal favorites are 2 bags of vanilla hazelnut tea, ginger and fennel tea, or peppermint tea with a hint of non-dairy creamer and Stevia to taste (optional) in an 8-10oz cup of coffee. Find your mix and enjoy!
Protein Mixes: there are lots of low-sugar pre-mixed protein options in liquid or powder form sold in almost every supermarket that can be healthier alternatives for creating that coffee experience in addition to some protein or added nutrition when you would otherwise skip breakfast or a healthy snack and opt for coffee. These mixes will add that frothy, creamy, sweet flavor some of you are looking for. My preferences include protein powders or ready-to-drink liquid caramel latte, chocolate, or vanilla mixes from the Atkins or Pure Protein brands.
Coffee Indulgence: For a special treat or after-meal dessert option, I also enjoy no-sugar added or sugar-free ice-cream (many flavors available!), ½ serving of vanilla or chocolate liquid protein mix with sugar-free caramel and/or chocolate syrup in my coffee. This is not an everyday choice though and is consumed in moderation!