Who doesn’t love a steaming latte, cup of hot cocoa or hot tea during the winter? You’d certainly be hard-pressed to find someone that fits that description.

But as tasty and soul-warming as these drinks are, are they actually good for our overall health? AFC Urgent Care Smyrna has some answers, so read on.

Is Coffee Good for Me?

Generally, yes, but many don’t healthily consume coffee. Black coffee is one of the biggest producers of antioxidants in the Western diet, but because most Americans add unhealthy flavor enhancers like fattening creams and sugary syrups, it loses its health value.

Since coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, we’ve listed a few ways you can keep your cup of joe healthy below.

Ways to Keep Your Coffee Healthy

• Limit yourself to two cups of coffee per day. Caffeine can provide a nice boost, but too much of it can dehydrate you and make you feel jittery.
• Add healthy ingredients like cinnamon and cocoa powder instead of syrups and drizzles.
• Try consuming organic beans if you can.
• Drink it black. Coffee in its purest form offers the most health benefits.

What About Other Warm Drinks?

The same logic applies. Over-sweetened, fattening drinks are not good for your health, no matter how tasty and comforting they are.

If you are looking for drinks to boost your health, we’d recommend herbal tea in addition to the suggestions below. Herbal teas, such as peppermint tea, ginger tea and green tea, are specifically recommended because of their effects on the digestive system. The warm temperature of any of these beverages actually widens blood vessels in the digestive system, which increases blood flow and activity.

More Healthy, Warm Drinks to Consider

• Herbal infusions can have some health benefits, but make sure you discuss them with your doctor.
• Lightly sweetened hot cocoa may actually reduce blood pressure and the risk of stroke! But don’t overdo it because hot cocoa can have lots of sugar and lead to weight gain.
• Hot water with lemon is immune-boosting and also boosts digestive health.

Warm drinks are great at times, but remember to keep them healthy! If you do find yourself under the weather, our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna is here for you. Walk in today!