7 Healthy Coffee Boosters to Use Instead of Sugar

Drink Up

If you’re cutting back on sugar and aren’t crazy about the alternatives, these healthy coffee boosters can help.

Instead of sweetness, each option adds flavor and health benefits to your morning brew in a unique way. Maybe you crave creaminess and healthy fats in the AM? Or would prefer your java come with a little kick?

Try one of these creative coffee add-ins next time you make a fresh pot for yet another way to energize your mornings (or get you through the afternoon slump).

7 Healthy Coffee Boosters

1. Grass-fed butter and coconut oil

By now, you must have heard of Bulletproof Coffee. You can get the official recipe, here, but essentially it involves blending grass-fed butter and coconut (or MCT) oil into your cup of joe. The result is a frothy, latte-like beverage that keeps you full for hours and slows down the release of caffeine for a steadier energy boost. The key: This one is a MEAL. It’s calorie-rich so is meant as a breakfast replacement, not to sip alongside a croissant.

2. Cinnamon

This warming spice comes with tons of research-tested health benefits thanks to antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and more. And it tastes delicious sprinkled on a latte or cappuccino.

3. Collagen powder

Collagen peptide powders are becoming a popular protein source thanks to their potential beauty and gut health benefits. Unlike most protein powders, you’ll barely taste collagen in coffee, so it’s a great quick protein fix if you don’t have time to make a smoothie.

4. Cocoa powder

Stir a spoon of high-quality cocoa powder in if you’re a chocoholic—for antioxidants and heart health, and yumminess.

6. Cayenne pepper

Warning: Be careful with this one! You don’t want to burn your mouth with coffee that’s too hot in more ways than one. Still, cayenne can add a nice kick and is linked to health benefits as impressive as…living longer. Pro tip: Try a cocoa-cayenne combo.

7. Smoothie ingredients

Okay, this one isn’t really an add-in (but it’s a great idea!). Instead of adding something to your coffee, add your coffee to something else: a smoothie. Just let it cool (or use the already cold old stuff from earlier) and stick it in the blender with chocolate protein powder, frozen bananas, and other coffee-friendly healthy flavors for an instant pick-me-up blend.

8. Baking soda

Coffee is acidic, which can be tough on those with sensitive stomachs. If you buy high-quality coffee this will likely be unnecessary, but some people swear by cutting the acidity by adding a small amount of baking soda (which is alkaline) to the grounds before brewing.