One of the most common questions my nutritional clients ask me is whether or not coffee is allowable on the eating plan I recommend for best health, the paleo diet. The paleo diet is more than a diet, it's a lifestyle based on eating a foundation of real foods just like our paleolithic ancestors have done for thousands of years. It is a heart healthy way of eating that promotes overall wellness and vitality.
My answer on coffee consumption has surprised many people who assume they must avoid their favorite beverage to be healthy.
Oh no, don't be so quick to give up your daily cuppa joe! My morning brew has truly become a sacred ritual in my daily routine. (See Why I Cherish My Morning Coffee Routine.) Coffee can indeed be a part of a holistic wellness plan.(although there are extremely specific instances when coffee should be avoided such as in cases of food sensitivity to coffee or when the coffee itself is pesticide-laden and toxic). It all boils down to individuality and ensuring you are drinking quality, organic coffee.
In most cases, if you're one of the millions of people who enjoy coffee daily and don't have a sensitivity issue, then coffee can remain as part of your paleo diet. As a huge source of antioxidants, coffee is great for lowering inflammation. I personally enjoy a good quality, strong cup of black coffee, but I know there are plenty of people who don't drink it plain and want to know how to spice up basic black coffee for their own personal enjoyment.
Here are 8 great ways to add variety, flavor and a bit of fun to your morning brew, all without compromising any of the Paleo, real food values. For more information, check out Can We Really Drink Coffee As Part of a Healthy Lifestyle?
8 Paleo Coffee Hacks:
- For the "pumpkin-all-year" lovers- For those of you who just can't get enough pumpkin in your coffee and lattes, try this paleo hack: add in some pureed canned pumpkin (about 1 T per cup of joe) with dashes of cinnamon, nutmeg or pumpkin spice and coconut milk. Blend. Or try this paleo Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe.
- For you "nutty" professors- Do you crave the flavor and taste of hazelnut, pecan or almond in your coffee but want to avoid toxic artificial flavors? Try adding a few teaspoons of your favorite nut butter plus a little coconut oil and blend with coffee until nice and smooth. Or check out this recipe for homemade paleo hazelnut creamer and cold brew.
- Holiday spice addicts- Adding the flavor of spices doesn't have to be complex. Just start by adding a teaspoon of your favorite spice or spice combo to jazz up your morning brew. For a fun twist with health benefits, try this Spiced Coffee recipe from fellow FNTP, Ali Richmond!
- Iced coffee drink- Let's face it, in the summer, we often crave cold beverages over hot ones. It can be as simple as chilling or adding ice to your favorite brew and you can still keep it paleo. Try my own recipe for a delicious DIY Pour Over Iced Coffee!
- Mocha all day- Oh how I love the combination of coffee and chocolate! My favorite way to keep this drink paleo is this recipe: 12 oz of brewed coffee, 1 tablespoon of coconut milk, 1 tablespoon of coconut cream, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of raw honey, and anywhere from 2 teaspoons to a tablespoon of raw cacao. Enjoy! Also try this paleo approved Mocha latte recipe!
- Bulletproof/Butter coffee- You've probably heard of the fat-heavy coffee of this type by now. So many people enjoy their morning coffee blended with a little grass fed butter and MCT oil. While the debate is still on as to whether or not butter was part of a traditional paleo plan, I use it liberally for my clients who tolerate dairy. For others, I substitute grass fed ghee. The key is the good fat with the coffee, but there is room for flexibility. Try this paleo bulletproof coffee recipe that adds a fun twist with cashews!
- Calling All Cappuccinos- The cappuccino, was, by far, my favorite coffee drink pre-paleo days. Who doesn't love the frothy deliciousness, aroma of cinnamon and sweet creaminess? Although I do not advocate having sweet treats daily, it is nice to be able to incorporate a few fun dessert-type beverages to help you stay on plan. Try out this paleo friendly cappuccino recipe the next time you want a fancy after- dinner beverage!
Keep in mind that the Paleo diet is about sticking to organic foods without pesticides or toxins, so make sure you are sourcing your coffee from a mold-free, toxin-free source such as Cardiology Coffee! To learn more about creating a healthful morning coffee habit, check out 7 Ways to Boost Wellness in Your Cuppa Joe.
