Coffee can be an integral part of a healthy diet when taken in moderation. Studies have linked coffee consumption with reduced risk for Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s and heart disease – among many others – according to various reports1. Unfortunately, too much milk, cream, sugar or flavoring syrups can make your cup of joe more like an energy drink than something nourishing and nutritional. But by making just a few changes you can upgrade your morning ritual while still taking pleasure from coffee as fuel for creative thinking!

If you are used to sweetening your beverage with added sugar, try cutting back for several days in order to reset your taste buds and eventually eliminate added sweeteners altogether. This should make the transition easier!

Switch out dairy milk for almond or cashew milk for an alternative that’s lower in saturated fat and calories; these nut milks provide creamy textures without needing sugar or cream!

Add an aromatic citrus boost to your cup of joe with citrus zest for an irresistibly sweet experience! Citrus helps neutralize bitter, acidic coffee from overoxidized beans while its phytochemicals offer numerous health benefits – including anti-inflammatory properties!

Homemade syrups made with natural ingredients found in your pantry can add flair and cut down on overprocessed, artificial flavouring found in supermarket syrups. To keep calorie counts under control, only add small pumps of syrup – Starbucks grande-sized coffee contains four pumps of sugary flavoring at approximately 20 calories each pump!

Another healthy way to elevate your coffee experience is by adding collagen. This protein-packed superfood powder can be mixed into hot or iced coffee for a delicious and satiating morning pick me up, particularly beneficial if lactose intolerant, cutting dairy out or just wanting an additional dose of vitamins and minerals like calcium, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Iron Magnesium as well as antioxidants are on your list of priorities.

As another way of increasing the nutritional value of your morning java, adding plant-based protein powder or hemp seeds as additional sources of protein may also provide an additional source. These additions offer additional help supporting lean muscle development while keeping appetite under control.