How to Make 8 Foods Instantly Better With Tea

You probably don’t need us to tell you all the benefits of sipping tea. But what you might not realize is that adding the drink to some of your favorite recipes and foods can make them taste so, so much better.

If the only thing you’re doing with your tea is drinking it, we’re here to tell you that you’re seriously missing out. Turns out the drink is versatile. Like, really versatile. (We’re talking brine-your-chicken-in-it, mix-your-butter-with-it, turn-it-into-dessert versatile.) Check out these eight very unexpected—and very delicious—ways to up your food game by simply adding some Iced Tea.

Oatmeal + Tea = Breakfast with a Twist

Whether you’re whipping it up from scratch or going the instant oats route, replace half of the water with unsweetened black or green tea. The oats will cook up just the same, but you get the added bonus of some extra flavor.

Chicken + Tea = The Juiciest Bird

Allow the chicken or turkey to sit in a bath of sweet tea in the refrigerator for several hours to infuse moisture and flavor into the meat. Just be warned: Anyone who tastes the final product—which will have a subtly sweet and unique flavor—to immediately ask you for the recipe. We give you permission to say it was a very complicated process and involved too many ingredients to count.

Tea + Freezer = Your New Favorite Dessert

Grab your favorite flavor, pour it into a pops maker, freeze and enjoy a guilt-free, fat-free dessert.

 

Butter + Tea = Better Butter

Add a tbsp. of lemon tea to a stick of melted butter. Put the mixture in the fridge to harden. Serve on grilled fish or with warm bread while discussing how you’ll never go back to regular old butter again.

Meat + Tea = A Tender Steak

Use tea’s tenderizing tannins to your advantage: Add black tea to your marinade before throwing the meat in a pan or on the grill. The result: steaks that are juicy, never tough.

 

Tea + Freezer (Part 2) = Not-So-Basic Ice Cubes

Step 1: Pour your favorite tea into ice cube trays and let freeze.

Step 2: Throw them in a glass and add tea (bonus points for mixing flavors).

Step 3: Smugly congratulate self on never having to drink water-down-thanks-to-melty-ice-cubes drinks again.

  

Rice + Tea = A Stellar Side

Use green tea in place of water when cooking rice and grains. Just like with the oatmeal, the rice kernels soak up the delicate flavor perfectly.

 

Chocolate + Tea = Next Level Fondue

Melt pieces of bittersweet dark chocolate with a dash of black or green tea and then dip pieces of fruit into your homemade fondue.

STRAWBERRY AND PEACH ROSÉ SANGRIA

A few years back, one of my besties introduced me to Rosé. I was hooked instantly. What’s not to love about drinking pink wine?! It’s a necessity for any summer soiree. Plus it makes you feel super fab when you sip something pink like this Rosé Sangria.

I’ve been on a bit of a sangria kick lately. I think it’s because there is such an abundance of insanely delicious fruit at the markets right now, I feel compelled to throw all of it into my drink.

I’ve made sangria a time or two on the blog before, and each one of them is as fantastic as the next. This Strawberry and Peach Rosé Sangria happens to be my current fav for many reasons.

1- Rosé, I’m obsessed. 2- Basil. Basil in cocktails is totally my jam. 3- Peaches. I literally cannot get enough.

STRAWBERRY AND PEACH ROSÉ SANGRIA

INGREDIENTS

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup brandy
• 2 cups sliced strawberries
• 1 cup sliced peaches
• 1 bottle Rosé
• 1 bottle Sauvignon Blanc
• 1 cup chilled club soda or sparkling water
• 10-20 basil leaves

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add the sugar and brandy to a large pitcher and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Add the fresh fruit, wine and club soda and stir to combine. Add the basil.
3. Refrigerate the sangria for at least 6 hours before serving.
4. Serve over ice.

Bedtime Fat Burning Juice

How incredible would it be if you could lose weight fast with one simple drink and of course few exercises?  It may sound hard to believe, but there is a way that you can actually burn fat and shed pounds really fast and easy!

How? This simple drink is the secret to losing weight.

Ingredients for Sleeping Weight Loss Drink

With these simple ingredients, which you can pick up at your local grocery store, you can whip up this weight loss drink (which is also super tasty) in no time:

• 1 lemon
• 1 cucumber
• 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon of aloe vera juice
• A bunch of either cilantro or parsley
• ½ glass of water

Simply add the ingredients together, blend them and drink a glass of the juice before bedtime.

How it Works

By drinking just one glass of this juice before bed, you will greatly reduce your fat levels – especially your belly fat. If you drink it nightly, and after waking up you do some cardio workouts for about 30 minutes you will notice results in just a few days.

It’s not uncommon to develop fat while you sleep. Why? Because when you go to sleep, your metabolism significantly slows down. The ingredients in this drink will give your metabolism a jump start so that it will continue burning fat while you sleep.

How is this possible? -- Because the ingredients in the drink are all proven to speed up the metabolism, so when you consume them you before you go to bed, your metabolism keeps running on high.

Cucumbers are very powerful for fighting fat. They are a key element in any weight loss program. One full cucumber contains just 45 calories and they are high in fiber and water content, two things that are keys to cutting fat; plus, they are very refreshing and give this drink a wonderful taste.

Parsley and cilantro are very low in calories and they are both loaded with antioxidants, as well as vitamins and minerals that are extremely powerful for easing water retention, thus, they help to deflate an inflated tummy.

Ginger steps up the metabolism and also prevents constipation, two things that are very powerful for fighting off that unwanted belly fat. This ingredient will help to burn off that stubborn belly fat while you sleep.

Lemon juice is very effective for flushing out toxins that accumulate in the body. As such, when you drink lemon juice, you will be able to blast off that belly fat. You’ll also feel a whole lot better because the impurities that have built up in your system will be cleaned out.

Aloe vera juice is exceptionally powerful for weight loss. It is full of antioxidants and helps to delay the development of free radicals in the body that cause inflammation and bloat. This juice also helps to stimulate your metabolic rate, which can help to greatly reduce your body mass index.

Sip this healthy drink before bed and you’ll wake up feeling lighter and more energetic.

SIX WAYS TO BREW COFFEE AROUND THE WORLD

I worked as a barista in my student years, and developed coffee savvy (yes!) and a serious addiction (dang).

The coffee habit produced a strange hobby of buying exotic new coffee makers on my travels and then lugging them home, bulky and bubble-wrapped. Now, with a pile of coffee making devices in my cupboard, I can geek out on all the options for my morning cup. Below are six tasty ways to brew a pot.

1. The Press

The French press, coffee plunger, caffetiere or Bodum. Call it what you like, it’s a popular little gadget.

Where you’ll find it:

These tabletop urns are popular in France (where they were first patented), and other parts of western Europe. It’s also used in North America, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

How it’s prepared:

A good brew will start with coarsely-ground coffee beans. Use a tablespoon of grinds for each “cup” (4 oz of coffee). Pour boiled water gently and evenly over the grinds. Coffee geeks here will backseat-brew with jabber about the “bloom”; a slow bubbling on the surface that looks like an opening flower. If your grinds start to froth up, you’re doing well so far. If you’re not seeing it, give the brew a few gentle stirs to get the bloom going.

Let the coffee sit about three minutes, then plunge. It’s oddly satisfying.

The taste:

The press extracts more oils from the beans, so the flavour is clearer and the texture is thicker than with a drip. It’s also said to produce the purest taste, since there are no paper filters and no risk of overheating. Mild coffees brew especially well in the press, since the “clean” preparation allows you to pick up the subtle notes.

The Sock

Okay, it’s not really a sock, though I’m sure you could use one in a pinch. This simple filter is made of cotton or muslin, and too small to fit on your foot anyway.

Where You’ll Find it:

This simple device is popular in Central and South America, where the sock works like a drip filter. In Thailand and Malaysia, the sock covers the rim of the pot and the grinds are immersed in water, steeping.

How it’s Prepared:

A medium to coarse grind of coffee bean is best, or else grinds will sneak through the weave of the fabric and you’ll end up with sludge.

In the Southeast Asian method, the “sock” is quite thin and looks like a tiny butterfly net with a wire handle. The preparation here is like loose-leaf tea. Pour the grinds into the sock, prop it over the mouth of a mug, pour in boiled water. Let it steep for 3-4 minutes.

In the Central and South American method, the “sock” is suspended over a coffee pot on a simple wooden frame. Pour coffee into the sock, with one tablespoon for every serving. Pour boiled water over the beans slowly and in widening circles, so the water spreads out evenly.

For cleaning, the sock is rinsed with water between uses. This allows oils and residue to build and add to the taste of future pots.

The Taste:

The first few brews make have a faint cottony taste. Once the sock gets a bit lived-in, the flavours will come out with clear high notes: think florals or fruitiness.

The Ibrik

Also called a cezve, this simple ladle is used to make strong, thick brew, known widely as Turkish coffee.

Where You’ll Find it:

This is one of the oldest currently-used methods for preparing coffee, and is common in Greece, Turkey and the Middle East. Pots are typically made of copper or brass, with a long wooden handle.

How it’s Prepared:

Start with a very, very fine grind of bean. It should be finer than espresso and close to the texture of baby powder.

For each serving, stir together 3-4 oz of cold water, 1 tsp (heaping) of coffee, and 1/2 tsp of sugar. Heat the ibrik on medium-low heat until it comes to a frothy boil. Remove the pot for a minute to let mix settle, then boil and cool again two more times. Pour the coffee into cups slowly. Each cup should have some grinds settled at the bottom, and a frothy head on top.

The Taste:

There’s a Turkish saying that coffee should be “black as hell, strong as death, and sweet as love.” For a well-brewed ibrik cup, that proverb sums it up. The taste is potent, but the sugar balances the acidic punch of the coffee.

The flat drip

One model of this simple brewer sits like a tiny metal hat atop your coffee cup, which is really cute.

Where you’ll find it:

In Vietnam, you’ll see cups of coffee topped with a still-brewing phin, or single-serving metal sieve. In India, countertop coffee makers use the same sieve design, but brew a family-sized amount of coffee.

How it’s Prepared:

For the Indian pot, warm the lower container with a rinse in hot water, then spoon a few tablespoons of coffee onto the sieved top chamber. Shake the pot a few times so the grinds sit evenly. Pour a few tablespoons of boiled water into the upper container to let the coffee swell. Wait a few seconds, then pour in the rest of the water (about 6 oz for every tablespoon of coffee) and close the lid. The coffee will percolate through the sieve in about ten minutes. To serve, transfer the coffee into cups in a long, steady pour to aerate the coffee.

The Vietnamese device is very similar, though with no bottom chamber. Instead, it’s brewed right into the coffee cup. There is a second sieve that’s twisted down over the grinds before adding the hot water. To make the coffee in true Vietnamese style, pour some condensed milk into the bottom of the cup before brewing.

In both cases, use medium-coarse beans, and spoon out more than you normally would for drip coffee. The flavour is supposed to be intense.

The Taste:

The strength of this brew is somewhere between espresso and coffee. A well-prepared cup has very little acidity. In both brewing methods, chicory-infused coffee is the norm, giving a bodied and slightly bitter taste.

The Instant

Call it astronaut brew, call it gross, call it an insult to the good name of coffee. Love it or hate it, this stuff is popular.

Where you’ll find it:

Oh, everywhere.

Individual sleeves of just-add-water mix are popular in southern and eastern Asia. Family-sized jars of instant stuff are common in North America and regions of Europe that don’t have proud, historic coffee traditions.

How it’s prepared:

Add boiling water. Stir. Finito! You can stir in some milk or hot chocolate mix too, if you wanna get fancy.

The Taste:

Okay, if you have a fine palate for coffee, you’ll likely hate the stuff. Its flavours can range from uber-bland to chemically bitter. Then again, coffee purists would likely hate the stuff on principle, for the sheer use of coffee beans that haven’t seen a roaster since Y2K.

Usually, the taste is gentle and sweet-ish. Those looking for mild flavour or just a simple caffeine jolt will probably find a brand they like.

The Moka

Yes, yes, the moka brews espresso and not coffee, but this gadget can make an Americano so perfect that it has replaced my morning coffee. It could convert you, too.

Where you’ll find it:

This little guy is big in Europe, especially in Italy. The aluminum model is the most popular, but stainless steel numbers are on the market too.

How it’s prepared:

Start with finely-ground beans, or go full Italian with ready-ground Illy or LaVazza.

Open the bottom chamber and fill it with cold water, up to the pressure valve. On top, place the middle filter and loosely pack in the coffee, then screw on the top bit tightly. Heat it on medium until it gurgles, at which point you’ll find lovely rich espresso, steam-brewed into the upper chamber.

Some models come with bigger top chambers for milk or cream, which heats along with the water and gets infused with the steam-made espresso.

Moka buffs are very precise about cleaning, since any buildup of oil from the beans can cause a bitter flavour in future brews. Most folks use warm soapy water, but purists will tell you to run a pot with vinegar instead of coffee to clean the whole device.

The Taste:

The flavours of moka and espresso machine brews are very very close. Still, I think the stovetop stuff is richer, less acidic, and almost chocolately. Also, the prep is so idiot-proof that it’s tough to make a bitter cup.

BLACK CONCORD MARTINI: Recipe

I’ve decided that Mother Nature and I should be friends. After all, she created the Concord grape with its jam-like flavor, beautiful deep purple skin, and sweet aroma. She’s a genius and I want to hang out with her, share a cocktail or two and discuss the Concord grape. So it’s only fitting that I take this beautiful berry (yes, grapes are technically berries, who knew) and turn them into a luscious weekend cocktail to enjoy!

Black Concord Martinis are my ode to this beautiful fruit, a jubilee of grape goodness with a little help from black currant, vodka and lime, all the best party companions. This martini starts by cooking down fresh concord grapes with water and sugar to make the base. A thinner version of quick homemade grape jelly, that when cooled and strained, gives this drink it’s vibrant fuchsia color and sweet grape flavor.

Just a splash of black currant liqueur and a hit of fresh lime make the grape flavors sing. It’s just that simple. No complicated ingredients, processes, or supplies needed. Pure sweet grape goodness just as Mother Nature intended had she liked a having a cocktail or two.

To compliment this cocktail, serve alongside a simple cheese platter. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more fitting companion for cheese than grapes and this Black Concord Martini does just the trick! Enjoy your weekend and happy sipping my friends.

Black Concord Martini

Ingredients

1. CONCORD GRAPE SYRUP
2. 3 cups concord grapes
3. 1/2 cup sugar
4. 1 cup water
5. MARTINI
6. 5 oz vodka
7. 4 oz concord grape syrup (recipe above)
8. 1 oz cassis liqueur (black currant)
9. juice of one lime
10. small clusters of concord grapes for garnish

Instructions

1. MAKE THE GRAPE SYRUP: In a sauce pan, combine grapes, sugar and water. Cook over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes stirring frequently until grapes have burst and syrup has become thick and bubbly.
2. Remove from heat and press syrup through a fine mess sieve. Discard pulp and refrigerate syrup until cool or ready to use.
3. MAKE THE MARTINI: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, 4 oz concord syrup, cassis liqueur, and lime juice.
4. Shake until well chilled and pour into two glasses.
5. Garnish with a small cluster of concord grapes.

Notes

1. Note: This cocktail tends to be on the sweeter side where cocktails are concerned. You can always adjust the sweetness by lessening the amount of sugar in your Concord Grape Syrup if you prefer.

21 Reasons to Drink Tea and Ditch the Coffee

I love both tea and coffee. However, a few years ago, I made up my mind to start drinking tea instead of coffee after reading about the immense health benefits associated with tea. These advantages are so pronounced that a great majority of medical professionals recommend it over coffee.

It is not that coffee is really bad for you. It’s just that tea is so much healthier for you, especially if you drink a few cups each day on a regular basis. Tea is actually considered to be a superfood in many health circles. The Japanese and Chinese have been drinking tea for over a thousand years and swear by it. In fact, tea is the second most most popular drink in the world after water.

Here are 21 benefits from drinking tea that you don’t get from drinking coffee:

1. Tea is easier and quicker to prepare than coffee.
2. It generally contains less caffeine than coffee.
3. Almost all forms of tea contain polyphenols, catechins and flavonoids. These are antioxidants that have tremendous health benefits. They help detoxify your body and help lower or prevent the formation of free radicals which damage your body. These antioxidants help prevent numerous diseases.
4. Drinking tea has been shown to help prevent clogging of the arteries and reduce heart disease so prevalent in today’s society.
5. Tea improves your sensitivity to insulin and helps prevent diabetes.
6. It helps with weight loss, raises your metabolism and has been shown to reduce fat.
7. It contains antimicrobial properties which help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in your body.
8. Tea actually helps lower cholesterol levels in the body.
9. The National Cancer Institute says that tea can help prevent numerous types of cancer, including breast, colon and prostate cancer.
10. Tea can help reduce the harmful effects of smoking on the lungs, including second hand smoke.
11. It has been shown to reduce the risk of neurological problems such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
12. Drinking tea reduces the risk of having a stroke.
13. It improves brain function, especially memory, mood and learning.
14. Tea helps improve dental health by reducing gum disease and inflammation.
15. It has been shown to improve bone density and strength.
16. Studies have shown that drinking tea helps prevent cataracts.
17. It helps improve muscle endurance.
18. It helps reduce cortisol levels which are associated with stress.
19. Drinking tea can help reduce allergies.
20. Tea increases your chances of living longer.
21. Tea is delicious!

What Exactly is Tea?

It is important to know that all true teas come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis. The difference between different kinds of tea is the way the plant is processed. In general, the less processed it is, the healthier the tea because it contains higher amounts of polyphenols.

Herbal teas are not from the Camellia Sinensis plant and are, therefore, technically not teas. They do not have the same properties, although some may still have health advantages. Chamomile, lavender, ginger, hibiscus, rosehip, lemon balm, and other herbal teas are NOT true teas. And please realize that most tea drinks like Snapple do not have the same health benefits as regular tea, and they are full of sugar.

So What Are the Healthiest Types of Teas?

The healthiest types of teas to drink are:

Green tea
White tea
Oo-long tea
Pu-er tea
Black tea

I highly recommend you reduce or stop drinking coffee and start drinking tea. You and your body will be glad you did. Here’s to your health!

Importance of Drinking Water for Healthy Living

Quick Bites

• The human body needs water to digest food properly.
• Water helps to cool the body in hot weather and insulates it in colder weather.
• Water can promote weight loss by draining out by-products of fat decomposition.
• To keep your skin soft and supple, drink lots of water.

Do you feel tired easily? Suffer from muscle pain or are not losing weight despite trying? You may not be drinking enough water.

Water is not only essential for carrying out the basic bodily functions, but also to help people look and feel good. It is a necessary part of life; every living being needs to drink water. Cells need water to absorb oxygen and function properly. The human body is made up of about 60 percent water which it uses to carry out basic bodily functions. It is important to replenish the body with water from time to time because it keeps losing this powerful liquid throughout the day while breathing, perspiring and urinating. The lost water must be replaced through food and drink.

Here is why it is important to drink water.

Helps digestion
Water aids digestion. The human body needs water to digest food properly. If there is a lack of water in the body, you may develop constipation, which can further lead to several health problems.

Improves circulation
If you are dehydrated, blood circulation in your body may alter because of the thickening of blood. Poor blood circulation may lead to bouts of headache and extreme fatigue. So, the more water you sip the better your blood circulation will be.


Maintains body temperature
Water helps regulate body temperature, which is why your instructor tells you to drink water before, during and after some sort of physical activity. Water gets lost during a physical activity because of heavy breathing and perspiration. This loss of water must be replaced to ensure that the temperature of the body does not dip. Keeping hydrated helps you perform better and also ensures that you are in good health. If you are not hydrates, you tend to be prone to heat exhaustion. Water helps to cool the body in hot weather and insulates it in colder weather.

Eliminates toxinsThe primary function of kidneys is to eliminate waste from the body. Drinking enough water lowers the burden on your kidneys. Therefore, adequate amount of water in the body is essential for the excretion of bodily wastes. Those who suffer from kidney diseases such as kidney stones can benefit from drinking 8 glasses of water every day.

Combats aliments
Drinking water regularly keeps the body’s functions going. If you lack water in your body, you are susceptible to headaches, migraines, fatigue, drowsiness and depression. The risks of back pain and muscle spasms can also be reduced by being sufficiently hydrated.

Promotes weight lossWater can promote weight loss by draining out by-products of fat decomposition and diluting the body's waste. Moreover, it is an appetite-suppressant. You may drink water before meals to reduce the intake of food.

Benefits the skinTo keep your skin soft and supple, drink lots of water. It moisturizer the skin and helps muscles to contract properly.

How much water should you drink?

According to the Institute of Medicine, men should consume about 13 cups of water a day while women should consume about 9 cups a day. However, how much water a person needs to drink depends on his or her size and activity level.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Black Coffee – World’s 10 Best Coffee Shop Chains

When it comes to coffee, most people have a mixed reaction to the alluring black water. While most of us can’t even think of beginning our day’s work without enjoying a steaming cup of black coffee, many health conscious people strictly stay away from it because of the rumoured disadvantages of coffee. In reality, the numerous health benefits of black coffee outweigh the disadvantages. Black coffee contains Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Magnesium, Manganese and Potassium. Black coffee does contains caffeine and taking caffeine in large doses can be harmful to health. The safe level of caffeine is between 200 to 300 milligrams per day which comes up to 2 to 4 cups of coffee. In this article, we present to you the top 10 health benefits of black coffee and the most popular coffee joints around the world where you can enjoy the best quality coffee.

10 Amazing Health Benefits of Drinking Black Coffee

Coffee is extremely healthy, and is loaded with powerful antioxidants and nutrients which makes it one of the healthiest of beverages loved by people all over the world. 

Improve Performance During Workouts – One of the biggest benefits of black coffee is that it drastically improves physical performance and helps you give your 100% throughout strenuous workout sessions. Caffeine, present in black coffee, increases Epinephrine (Adrenaline) levels in the blood, which prepares the body for intense physical exertion. Caffeine also breaks down stored body fat and releases the fat cells into the blood stem in the form of free fatty acids which can be used as fuel for strenuous activities. Caffeine can enhance physical performance by almost 11 to 12% on an average. It is suggested to consume a cup of strong coffee about 30 minutes before hitting the gym.

Promotes Weight Loss – Coffee can be used as one of the functional natural remedies for weight loss that shows prompt results. Caffeine has been shown to boost the metabolism rate of the body by 3 to 11%. It also stimulates the nervous system which signals the fat cells in the body to break down stored body fat which is then used up by the body as a source of energy during exercise as opposed to glycogen.

Caffeine and other compounds found in black coffee also act as an appetite suppressant and prevent unhealthy cravings in a successful manner.

Controls Diabetes – One of the most effective benefits of drinking black coffee on a daily basis is that helps in providing protection against diabetes mellitus – one of the widely prevalent chronic diseases which can further lead to heart diseases, nerve damage and organ damage. Research shows that subjects who consumed 7 or more cups of black coffee every day have a lower incidence of diabetes compared to those who drank 2 or fewer cups every day. Coffee helps control diabetes by improving insulin production and enhancing insulin sensitivity of the cells. Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee is beneficial for management and prevention of diabetes.

Improved Cardiovascular Health – One of the lesser-known advantages of drinking coffee is improved cardiovascular health. Although regular consumption of black coffee can increase blood pressure temporarily, this effect diminishes over time. It is often considered one of the most functional home remedies for heart health. Drinking 1 to 2 cups of black coffee per day reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

Reduce the Risk of Cancer – Cancer has emerged as one of the biggest killers in today’s world. The health benefits of black coffee for cancer prevention are well-known. The compounds in coffee help prevent certain types of cancer such as liver cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer and rectal cancer. The polyphenols and powerful antioxidant phytochemicals present in coffee possess potent anticarcinogenic properties which help reduce inflammation, which is one of the main causes behind the growth of certain tumors.

Improved Brain Functions – Progressing age leads to decreased cognitive functions and increases the risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Enhancing brain functions is one of the most useful benefits of black coffee in the morning. Regular consumption of coffee is linked to slower cognitive decline associated with aging. Although following a healthy and balanced diet chart and regular exercises is the best way to prevent neurodegenerative diseases, forming the healthy habit of drinking coffee also helps lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by 65% and Parkinson’s disease by 60%.

Beneficial for The Liver – The liver is one of the most vital organs of the body which performs so many important functions, and your liver loves black coffee. Black coffee not only helps prevent liver cancer but also other common diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver diseases and cirrhosis – specifically alcoholic cirrhosis. People who drink 4 or more cups of black coffee every day have 80% lower risk of developing liver diseases. Coffee helps lower the levels of harmful liver enzymes in the blood, which means there is a lower level of liver inflammation and damage.

Reduces Stress and Depression – Excessive work pressure and tension leads to stress and depression and increases the risk of serious health issues like heart attack, stroke and also increases the risk of suicide. But a steaming cup of black coffee can give an instant mood lift and make things better. Caffeine present in coffee stimulates the central nervous system and increases the production of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline – important neurotransmitters that elevate the mood. Drinking 2 cups of black coffee a day helps to reduce stress and depression, and it works as effectively as relaxing yoga and tai chi techniques.

Protection Against Gout – Yet another amazing benefit of black coffee is its capacity to reduce the risk of developing gout. Research shows that women who drank more than 4 cups of black coffee every day had 57% reduced risk of gout, and this is true for both regular and decaffeinated coffee. The powerful antioxidants present in coffee reduce the risk of developing gout by decreasing the level of insulin and uric acid in the body. It helps relieve the swelling, pain and stiffness of joints associated with gout.

Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer – This is perhaps the one of the greatest benefits of black coffee for skin. Skin cancer or melanoma is a life-threatening disease that is caused by the development of abnormal cells which have the ability to spread to other parts of the body. Caffeine present in black coffee has been shown to lower the risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. Therefore, women are recommended to drink 3 or more cups of coffee a day to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

10 Most Popular Coffee Shop Chains in the World

Tasting and enjoying rich premium coffee is an art that has to be experienced and enjoyed with leisure. Now that you have gathered some idea about the numerous health benefits of drinking black coffee on a daily basis let us know about the best coffee brands and famous coffee shop chains from all around the World where you can enjoy a truly great cup of coffee. And it better be black if you really want to experience the taste in its original form.

Starbucks Coffee

What better way to begin our day with one of the world’s most popular coffee chains. Starbucks coffee – the star of the show. Starbucks has a long history of serving pure and excellent quality coffee and delicious coffee-based beverages, and it has shops all over the world, with a few in India as well. Starbucks is an American coffee company that is famous for its hot and cold beverages and the first Starbucks coffee shop opened in the year 1971 in Seattle, Washington.

Some of the best Starbucks coffee flavours you can choose from are Featured Dark Roast, Decaf Pike Place Roast, Pike Place Roast, Clover brewed coffee – all of which are extremely low in calories and the perfect choice for all those health conscious people out there. If you are on the run, then you can just pick up a Coffee Traveler from the takeaway section of the store.

Costa Coffee

Costa Coffee is known to serve the best coffee in the world. It is a British multinational coffeehouse company based in Dunstable, England. The coffee used in Costa Coffee comes from its own roastry and the special blend served in the retail store is known as  “Mocha Italia” and it is prepared to form a blend of 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta.

Lovers of black coffee can try the Americano range which presents smooth coffee mixed with shots of espresso and hot water. You can add milk if you want.

McCafé

McCafé is a famous coffee-house chain owned by burger giant McDonald’s. It started operating in the USA in the year 2001, and presently has numerous shops operating all over the world. Each and every type of coffee reflects a rich and smooth blend of coffee made by their very own barista. You can opt for the plain McCafé Coffee that contains zero calories and zero fats or McCafé Latte that contains 170 calories.

You can indulge in an occasional treat by tasting the McCafé White Chocolate Mocha, McCafé Caramel Mocha, McCafé Frappé Chocolate Chip or the McCafé Iced Mocha.

Gloria Jean’s Coffees

Next in the list is Gloria Jean’s Coffees, which is a world famous coffee shops brand that was founded by Gloria Jean Kvetko in Chicago, the USA in the year 1979. Later, two coffee connoisseurs Nabi Saleh and Peter Irvine introduced the brand to Australia. Black coffee lovers can try the classic CAFFÉ AMERICANO (LONG BLACK) which is made from a blend of espresso coffee and hot water.

It contains merely 6 calories and lees than 0.1 gram of total fat. You can also indulge in the delicious taste of the Gloria Jean specialities such as Caffé Mocha, Mocha Caramel Latté, Irish Nut Crème or White Chocolate Mocha.

Coffee Beanery

Coffee Beanery is a Michigan-based chain of coffee shops that operates in the US, US territories, Europe and Asia that was founded in the year 1976. It introduced the term “Speciality Coffee” into the market and provided top quality and exceptional coffee, and it is still true to its commitment to quality.

The coffee used to prepare the brews is made from hand-selected beans that are roasted, flavoured and packed at their own warehouse and distribution center. You can taste the Beanery Blend or Beanery Blend Decaf both of which are low in calories and has zero total fat.

Tim Hortons

Tim Hortons’ coffee is known as Canada’s favourite coffee, and this coffee chain has the reputation of serving you a “fresh pot” every time without fail – which means you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee every time which has not been sitting in the jugs for hours. It is one of the largest coffee shop chains in the world and was founded in Hamilton, Ontario in the year 1964 by Canadian hockey player Tim Horton and Jim Charade. You can choose your fresh cup of premium coffee from the Original Blend, the New Dark Roast Coffee or the Decaf Coffee.

The Original Blend presents a perfectly balanced, medium-roasted blend, whereas the New Dark Roast Coffee is made from 100% premium blend of Arabica beans roasted with great care. Even the Decaf Coffee is so flavourful that you will think it is regular coffee.

Dunkin’ Donuts

Donuts are America’s favourite snack and what better accompaniment for a delicious donut than a cup of steaming coffee? Dunkin’ Donuts is a global doughnut and coffeehouse chain based in Canton, Massachusetts, and it is one of the biggest competitors of Starbucks. Each cup of coffee is made with 100% Arabica coffee beans that are grown, picked and graded as per the strict quality specification of Dunkin’ Donuts.

You can relax your senses and get an instant boost of energy by sipping on a cup of freshly brewed black Hot Coffee or Espresso.

Caribou Coffee

Caribou Coffee is the second largest coffee chain in the North America, and is spread over 10 countries, specializing in delicious handcrafted espresso.  It is a Minnesota-based company founded by John Puckett. The brand is famous as the roaster of its own blends of coffee. You can choose from the classic Espresso, Americano and Iced Americano. The Espresso is smooth and bold with a sophisticated and powerful taste and makes a perfect base for delicious lattes, cappuccinos and espresso-based beverages, and it is exquisite on its own as well. It has only 5 calories.

The Americano is made with a blend of rich espresso and hot water which creates a bolder version of the classic brewed coffee and it has zero calories and zero total fat. The Iced Americano is rich espresso combined with water and ice, and it has 5 calories.

Tully’s Coffee

Tully’s Coffee is a speciality coffee retailer and whole seller which was founded in the year 1992 in Seattle, Washington, and soon spread all over the world. It is famous for its speciality coffees, espresso and coffee-related supplies. Rumour has it that Tully’s considered the Coffee giant Starbucks as its chief competitor. The freshly roasted coffee made from premium quality beans at Tully’s has a rich, vibrant and smooth taste. Some of the best black coffee options as Tully’s Coffee are Americano, Brewed Coffee and Espresso. The Americano is a bolder version of the classic American coffee made from a shot of espresso infused with hot water.

This procedure creates an intensely complex blend of tastes and aromas. The Brewed Coffee reveals the subtle tastes and characteristics of both the single-origin and blended coffees. Tully’s Espresso is extremely aromatic and full-bodied and can be used as the perfect base of latte and mochas.

Lavazza Coffee

Last but not the least is Lavazza Coffee, which is also known as Italy’s favourite coffee. It is a successful coffee giant well-known all over the world. Lavazza is an Italian manufacturer of coffee products founded by Luigi Lavazza in Turin in the year 1895. The business began as a small grocery store, and the business of Lavazza is still administered and managed by the 3rd and 4th generation of the Lavazza family. Lavazza imports coffee beans from various countries around the world like Brazil, Columbia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Uganda, Indonesia, Vietnam, Untied States and Mexico.

Lavazza supports and promotes sustainable production concerns and has started a sustainable agriculture program in Honduras, Colombia and Peru which aims to improve the quality of coffee as well as the environment and working conditions of the workers working in the coffee plantations. You can choose from the Lavazza classic Espresso or Caffee Americano in order to experience the true taste of Lavazza coffee.

So, choose your favorite coffee brand as per your personal taste and preference and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the smooth and sophisticated taste of premium black coffee.