What About Coffee?

The warmth of your morning latte, espresso, cappuccino, or black coffee holds a special place in your heart. In fact, many claim it's what gets them out of bed in the morning, starting the engine of their daily routine. But is your morning coffee serving you? Let's take a look...

You've probably heard opposing stories about coffee's health merits. One source may applaud coffee's health supportive side: it's brimming with antioxidants; it protects against liver disease; and it lowers the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes. Another claims it dehydrates the system, negatively affects adrenal function, and acidifies the body. Who's right? As with most nutrient-related questions, it depends on who you are. Your unique constitution has a big role to play when looking at the benefits or drawbacks of a specific food. As does the time of year and your activities. Everyone is different and had different needs.

So many folks are overbooked and under-rested during their days that they rely upon a hot cup of java to crank out the energy they need. But with the push of caffeine driving the adrenals, the body's fight-or-flight response is activated - the ensuing burst of energy is not authentic. Each time one ingests caffeine, a cascade of adrenaline is released by the adrenals, hence the "caffeine rush." Over time, this can lead to tired adrenals and reduced energy - exactly what habitual coffee users are hoping to avoid by drinking coffee. So while coffee has it's place (a cup or so a day seems fine, as long as there aren't underlying adrenal issues), the caffeine it contains can cause imbalance when not consumed in moderation.

According to Kathryn Temp­leton, the founder of the Himalayan Institute’s Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist training program,“A little bit of coffee can be medicinal, but we often gulp it down in Dunkin’ super cups.” With coffee, moderation is key. If you feel the need to indulge, keep it to a cup per day. We've been enjoying what's known as "Bullet Coffee" in the mornings, and really enjoying it! This recipe is great for the brain and supports consumption of healthy fats.

2 tablespoons Kerrygold Irish Butter

2 tablespoons Great Lakes Gelatin – Collagen Hydrolysate

2 tablespoons MCT Coconut Oil (MCT stands for Medium-chain triglycerides, or medium-chain fatty acids, which are prevalent in coconut oil, palm oil, and to varying degrees in certain animal milks.)

Add these ingredients to your mug, then add your cup of freshly brewed coffee. Pour the mixture into the blender and blend for 30 seconds. Then relax and take the time to enjoy this great cup of coffee, which non-dairy and good for your brain and joints!

Or, if you'd like a coffee-free alternative, but still want to go "bulletproof," try this rich chai version.

2 cups strong, organic black tea

1 tablespoon grass-fed butter

1 tablespoon organic coconut oil (or MCT coconut oil)

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or to taste)

A few drops of stevia, or a teaspoon of raw honey

Place the ingredients into a blender and blend on high until the mixture is frothy and emulsified; serves two.