Once those temperatures start to ease down as we move into the Fall months, most people rush off to grab their first Pumpkin Spice Latte of the season. Warm beverages are fantastic during the colder months, but many of these warm drinks can pack a ton of sugar in one cup.
Luckily, there are loads of healthy and immune-boosting warm drinks you can enjoy instead.
Here are a few of my favorite options to rotate through the chilly months...
Fresh ginger tea
Not only is ginger wonderful for tummy troubles, but it’s also great for reducing inflammation. Slice a small piece of fresh ginger root and add it to your cup. Pour boiling water over it and voila -- you have ginger tea!
Fresh mint tea
Mint might seem like a summery flavor, but it works as an outstanding way to clear your palate, aid digestion, and help you feel full after a meal. You’ll be less prone to snacking when you end your meal with a cup of fresh mint tea.
Homemade hot chocolate
It’s so tempting when the winds start to get a bit blustery to pop into your favorite café for an indulgent hot chocolate. Save one of those for a special treat and instead, make your own hot chocolate at home. Use an unsweetened cocoa powder with warmed almond milk. You can sweeten it with just a hint of honey if you prefer.
Coffee
A nice, aromatic cup of coffee will surely perk you up. Organic is the best option to choose, but if you want your healthiest cup, keep it free and clear of refined sugar, flavorings and cream.
Hot lemon water
Another way to cleanse your palate is to slice up fresh lemons and pour boiling water over them for a hot lemonade of sorts. Leave the sugar out of the equation, and you’ll find you have a delightful sip-worthy drink without any of the ill side effects.
Green tea
Like coffee, green tea has loads of antioxidants. Buy a quality brand to make sure you’re not getting any unwanted hidden extras.
Healthy homemade chai latte
Chai tea itself is very healthy, but most people head to the café to grab a chai latte in fall. You might be tempted too with its warming aroma, thinking you’re doing better than getting that pumpkin spice latte. But chai lattes can have loads of sugar also. A better option is to brew chai tea at home and then froth up almond milk in your microwave. Add a touch of cinnamon to the top to make it feel more indulgent without doing any harm.
Healthy warm beverage choices can be delicious. Keep this list handy, so when the mood strikes, you’ll be ready with a healthy option to counter your cravings!