In late September I decided it was time for a coffee break. As in no more; I quit.
I didn’t start drinking coffee until my early 30’s. My partner at the time kept urging me to try it. When we started triathlon training, I decided a latte for a pre-workout boost might work. It did, and in no time I was hardcore – no milk or sugar for me; I’ll take it black, please. I wasn’t a daily drinker; I could take it or leave it, depending on my mood and the meal. Eggs for breakfast – definitely coffee; oatmeal – not so likely. Sometimes a latte or espresso in the afternoon, but I kept that for weekends.
In recent years I found myself having coffee more regularly. Sometimes multiple cups a day. As much as I hated to admit it, I suspected it was messing with my hormones and contributing to my restless nights. And sleep trumps pretty much everything else! Wondering how coffee might be affecting your health? Read this.
When nutritionist Meghan Telpner shared her Morning Elixir on Instagram I decided to try it. Delicious, energizing, and satiating, it kept me going for hours. I was a convert!
Nutritionist @MeghanTelpner’s Morning Elixir on Instagram
I skip the honey and change it up with cacao powder and Four Sigmatic’s Chaga Mushroom Elixir (which has a hint of sweetness). I even add a pinch of cayenne pepper some mornings! It’s easy to adapt to your individual taste.
Healthy fats like ghee and coconut oil help stabilize blood sugar and prevent that midmorning crash. They’re essential for brain and hormone function too. Collagen promotes skin, joint and gut health. Check out Meghan’s Ultimate Elixir Recipe Infographic for more nutrition-boosting morning brews.
Not one cup of coffee since. I don’t miss it; well, except perhaps at Saturday brunch with friends. My sleep has improved. And I may be a bit less edgy. Bonus: I’ve rediscovered the pleasures of tea. My pantry’s fully stocked – green, white, mint, chamomile, fennel, mate, matcha…
Anti-inflammatory “Golden Milk” is another warm, comforting favourite. The basic version uses powdered turmeric, but if you can find it try using the fresh root. Be warned – it’s messy and will leave you with golden fingers, but it adds depth. Be sure to include the black pepper – it helps your body absorb the curcumin in the turmeric. Naturopath Dr. Dori Skye Engel suggests adding coconut oil and collagen for more yummy goodness. You can see her recipe here.
That’s it; I quit. It’s given me the impetus to make a few more changes for the better too. I’ll keep you posted on those…
Are you a coffee drinker looking to cut back? Even if you’re not, I encourage you to give one of these alternatives a try. Let me know how it goes in the comments below.
Let me know what you think!