August is National Coffee Month and so on Tuesday, August 13th during Good Morning Quad Cities, Dietitian Caitlyn Ferin from Fareway Food Stores showed us how to take the go-to morning beverage and maximize its benefits:
Potential Health Benefits of Coffee
- Can increase immunity due to antioxidants
- Can boost brainpower and wakefulness for a short time due to the caffeine stimulating central nervous system
- As with anything, moderation is key
Choose Wisely
- Keep your coffee healthier by avoiding high calorie options such as sugary syrups and creams
- Instead, add flavor with:
- Whole milk or coconut milk
- Pure vanilla or almond extract
- Spices such as pumpkin pie spice, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, clove, nutmeg
- Cocoa powder
- Natural sweetener such as stevia
Coconut Vanilla Creamer
- 1, 15 ounce can full fat coconut milk or half and half
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Place all ingredients in a large jar and seal. Shake well for 2-3 minutes, until all ingredients are well distributed. Store in the refrigerator. Use amount desired. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ground nutmeg as desired.
