#PSL the Healthy Way

If you’ve been near a Starbucks or Instagram lately, you know it’s #PSL season. As in, Pumpkin Spice Latte. This seasonal treat may be yummy, but what’s it costing you (other than a decent chunk of change)?

Hormones, antibiotics, GMOs, pesticides. Yep, all of those are likely lurking in your latte. Not to mention added sugar and flavoring. Looking more like a trick than treat now.

So how can we get coffee our way and be healthy too? A few minor changes make for major health bennys.

Check your milk. And I’m not talking expiration here. Use organic soy, almond or cow’s milk in your drinks to steer clear of hormones, antibiotics, and pesticides. Conventionally produced soy usually contains GMOs which are thought to cause a variety of health issues. Conventionally produced cow’s milk often contains hormones and antibiotics. Added hormones have been linked to certain cancers and may induce early puberty. Over-use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic-resistance, making these powerful drugs less so when needed.

Go sugar free. As in no sugar, not artificial sugar. If you like a little sweet flavor, try adding a dash or two of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Vet your beans. Last but definitely not least, let’s look at the coffee you are drinking. Organic coffee beans are free from pesticides. Healthier for you, better for the environment. I like Allegro, a whole trade organic coffee carried at Whole Foods stores, and La Colombe.

Some coffee houses offer organic, GMO-free options. Or buy the ingredients and make your own at home. And you don’t have to miss out on pumpkin spice season…learn how to make your own organic coffee creamer.

[Image by Marissa Bracke at Flickr.com, cc]

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