Are you maximizing your morning coffee? From top coffee trends to no-brainer additions, we've got you covered. Read through our 3 simple ways to refresh your routine and make your next cup, your best cup.
1. KNOW YOUR JOE
Welcome, coffee lovers! There are a few things you should know to get the most out of your daily cup. From caffeine levels to finding the roast that’s right for you, we'll cover everything you need to know so you can refresh your coffee routine.
HOW MUCH CAFFEINE DO YOU NEED?
Let's start with the basics: caffeine. The right amount of caffeine for a person varies depending on their tolerance and sensitivity to it. Generally, it is recommended that healthy adults who are not pregnant or trying to become pregnant consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. This is roughly equivalent to four, 8-ounce cups of coffee. However, not every cup of Joe has the same strength! Plus, it's important to remember that caffeine affects everyone differently, so it's best to listen to your body and adjust your intake accordingly.
LIGHT OR DARK ROASTS?
One of the most common debates among coffee lovers is light roasts versus dark roasts. The truth is, it all comes down to personal preference. Light roasts tend to have a brighter, more acidic taste, while dark roasts have a bolder, more full-bodied flavor. It's worth trying both to see which you prefer. Some coffee aficionados even like to mix different roasts to create a unique flavor profile.
TOP COFFEE TRENDS
As with any food or beverage, coffee trends come and go. One of the hottest trends at the moment is white coffee, which is made by roasting coffee beans at a lower temperature for a shorter amount of time. This results in a coffee with a much lighter color and milder flavor than traditional coffee. Another favorite among coffee fanatics is cold brew coffee, which is brewed with cold water over a long period of time, resulting in a smoother, less bitter taste.
2. MAXIMIZE YOUR MORNING CUP
For those following a keto diet, coffee can be a great way to start the day. Coffee itself is keto*-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of what you add to it. Here are some keto*-friendly ways to enhance your coffee:
Many traditional creamers are loaded with sugar and carbs, which don’t always fit a strict keto*-friendly diet. Instead, opt for lower carbohydrate options like unsweetened coconut, almond, or cashew milk, coconut cream or whole milk varieties. If you prefer a little sweetener, you can always experiment with keto*-friendly sweeteners like stevia to see if they work for you!
AMP UP THE PROTEIN
Unless you’re having a latte with a cup of milk (which provides 8 grams of quality protein per cup), coffee in and of itself is negligible in protein. An easy way to increase the protein content of your morning cup of joe is adding in a booster, like collagen. While research is still evolving in this area, what we do know is that some evidence suggests that oral supplementation with collagen can help improve skin elasticity and is generally recognized as safe.
The downside is that collagen can become denatured (meaning it’s not as effective) when added to something hot. The good news is that coffee made at a temperature below 302 degrees Fahrenheit should be fine. Consider adding it to your cold brew (which who knows, could be the next trend for summer coffees).
Check out more of our simple ways to add more protein on the go here.
3. PICK YOUR PAIRING TO FUEL YOUR MORNING
Coffee is more than just the best smell to wake up too, it's also a great beverage pairing alongside your breakfast or snack. Here are some keto*-friendly ideas to try:
- Pair your coffee with keto*-friendly breakfast options like scrambled eggs with avocado, low-carb pancakes or a breakfast bowl with veggies and bacon.
- When you’re enjoying your coffee on the go, try something quick & delicious like :ratio Keto*-Friendly Snacks.
- Get creative with your smoothies! For a fun twist, try mixing your morning cold brew into your smoothie with your favorite protein powder. Some of our favorites: cold brew, frozen bananas, peanut butter protein powder and a scoop of cocoa!
JUST BREW IT
Whether you like it hot or cold, coffee is one of the most versatile drinks, so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what fits your tastebuds best! Just be sure you don’t forget to have something alongside your cup of joe to avoid any unwanted caffeine jitters. Be sure to check out these other great on-the-go snack ideas to pair with your coffee fix!
*Always consult your physician before starting an eating plan that involves regular consumption of high-fat foods.
SOURCES:
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/spilling-beans-how-much-caffeine-too-much
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/2340762/nutrients