Our beloved coffee. I invite you to create a healthy routine with your coffee, aware of your use and any reliability you may have on it for its buzz. Check in with yourself before you sip, be aware when your habit becomes dire. If you feel so inclined, occasionally swapping it for the l-theanine and antioxidant rich option; matcha.
Coffee has some beautiful properties, stimulating detoxification of the liver and rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. Opting to have it healthily will minimise any harmful effects and optimise the benefits.
Some simple tips to minimise the jitters and crash that it may give you.
01. Breakfast first
Drinking coffee on an empty stomach increases cortisol and adrenaline (our stress hormones) putting our bodies into ‘fight-or-flight’ mode. As the body processes the increased stress it pauses bodily functions such as digestion and hormone production. This is why it causes you to lose your appetite. Have a high protein breakfast prior to your coffee to regulate your hormones and support your blood sugar levels.
02. Away from iron supplementation
The phenolic compounds in coffee interfere with our bodies ability to absorb iron in the gastrointestinal tract by up to 90%. Separate your coffee (& black tea) consumption from iron rich meals or supplementation by at least one hour.
03. Hydrate
Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production. Without replenishment this can leave you dehydrated. Combat by increasing your water consumption after your coffee.
04. Reduce if you are anxious
Coffee has excitatory properties, promoting 'fight-or-flight' check in with yourself, if you are already feeling anxious or stressed – opt for a matcha or decaf for the nervous system.
05. Sleep hygiene
Try not to drink caffeine after 12pm, caffeine's effects can last up to 6 hours. We want to aim for 8-9 hours of sleep each night – we don’t want anything getting in the way of this.
06. Drink with a fat source
To stabilise blood sugar levels drinking coffee with a fat source such as MCT oil or full fat milk can help reduce the glucose spike.
You don’t have to stop drinking your coffee, just opt to have it healthily.
