Start your day off on the right foot with a nourishing cup of java.

For many, a warm mug or chilled cup of coffee is a must-have part of your morning routine. Besides its tasty flavour and jolt of energy, coffee has a wealth of health benefits, from antioxidants to a lowered risk of heart failure. 

If you're looking to get even more out of your coffee, consider swapping out your regular brew or adding these nourishing ingredients to your morning cup.

1. Mushroom coffee

Photos courtesy Landish/Amazon

Mushrooms may not immediately spring to mind when it comes to your morning brew, but there’s evidence to suggest that the fungi has its benefits. These healthy coffees are infused with medicinal mushrooms—such as chaga, lion’s mane, and reishi—rather than your usual grocery store variety. Once they’re finely ground and mixed in with a coffee, hot chocolate, or tea blend, you’d be pressed to taste them at all.

Mushroom coffee isn’t a new concept. In fact, it’s been a part of traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic practices for thousands of years. Coffee brands—including Landish and Organic Traditions—claim that these adaptogen-laden brews strengthen immunity, energy and focus, and promote a more restful sleep. 

Early research shows that these claims have some merit. A 2023 study found that medicinal mushrooms contain high levels of antioxidants, help boost metabolism, and even slow signs of aging.

Landish, 5 Mushroom Coffee Creamer, $37

Amazon, ​Organic Traditions Focus Fuel Mushroom Coffee, $22

2. Chicory coffee 

This coffee-like drink doesn’t contain any coffee at all! Made from roasted chicory root, this New Orleans staple is a caffeine-free alternative that bears a striking resemblance—in taste and flavour—to traditional coffee. It’s also common to see a blend of coffee and chicory for a balanced, lower-caffeine drink. 

For a boost of prebiotics and vitamin B6, consider adding two tablespoons of chicory powder into your coffee. 

3. Vitamin and nutrient-infused coffee 

Photo courtesy Nespresso

From collagen to probiotics, there’s no shortage of coffee blends that contain extra vitamins and nutrients. 

If your morning coffee of choice involves a Nespresso machine, consider trying out the brand’s new Vivida brew. This Vertuo pod is enriched with vitamin B12, an essential nutrient that helps boost energy and contributes to red blood cell production. According to Nespresso, a single pod contains 35 percent of your daily B12 intake.

Nespresso, Vivida, $16

4. Bulletproof coffee

This keto-friendly coffee drink is oft-found at healthy coffee shops, but it’s simple to recreate at home. Bulletproof coffee is a blend of coffee and high-fat ingredients like unsalted butter and MCT oil, a coconut oil derivative. Mix the ingredients together for a warm and frothy latte-like drink.

Bulletproof coffee was originally created by Dave Asprey, who developed the Bulletproof diet, as a substitute for traditionally high-carb breakfasts. While some claims suggest that the drink can promote weight loss and improve mental clarity, most experts discourage bulletproof coffee as a meal replacement and daily brew. Consider indulging in the drink every so often alongside a nutrient and vitamin-rich breakfast. 

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