Coffee can be part of a healthy diet when prepared properly; there are numerous methods available for making coffee healthier without compromising its delicious flavor or stimulating properties.

No matter the form you take it in, coffee can help boost energy and enhance alertness. Properly prepared coffee contains antioxidants as well as some vitamins and minerals for an added health boost.

Studies have demonstrated that people who consume four or five cups of coffee per day may live longer. One theory suggests this may be related to caffeine’s ability to block receptors for sleep-inducing chemicals in your brain and therefore wake you up more quickly and give more energy during the day.

Coffee may not be for everyone, especially those living with certain health conditions such as dehydration and jitters and headaches. If you have conditions such as glaucoma or GERD, however, avoiding caffeine altogether would likely be best.

The healthiest way to enjoy coffee is black or with minimally added ingredients. That means avoiding extraneous components such as cream, syrups, additives and sugars which can add hundreds of extra calories in just one drink. If you do prefer sweetened coffees instead, natural sweeteners such as stevia, erythritol maple syrup or monk fruit offer lower calorie options that won’t damage teeth as quickly.

If you decide to add milk or cream, try switching out dairy varieties for non-dairy options such as almond, coconut or oat options that contain less saturated fat and calories than their dairy counterparts. When selecting creamer for use, choose lower-fat versions like 1 or 2% for maximum energy savings without too many added calories compared to full-fat options or sugary options.

Add an extra burst of flavor to your cup by steeping herbs such as mint or chamomile to give a fresh aroma, as well as health benefits including anti-inflammatory properties. And for an added metabolism boost, consider including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) from coconut oil as these have been shown to accelerate metabolic function while simultaneously burning off fat stores in your body.

Lastly, if you’re trying to reduce sugar intake, switch from dairy milk to unsweetened plant-based options like oat or almond. Not only will this lower saturated fat levels that contribute to heart disease and diabetes but it will also cut out unnecessary calories!