Preliminary Study Shows Coffee and Milk Combat Inflammation

As morning drink habits evolve, many are exploring alternatives to traditional coffee due to concerns over jitters, crashes, and digestive discomfort. Matcha, a minimally processed Japanese green tea, offers a unique mix of caffeine and l-theanine for balanced energy and calmness, though robust Western research on its health effects remains limited. Other lesser-known options like yaupon holly tea, native to North America, provide a stomach-friendly caffeine source with antioxidants and a smaller environmental footprint compared to coffee. Meanwhile, some studies suggest that combining coffee with milk may enhance inflammation-fighting properties due to interactions between polyphenols and proteins, but these findings are still preliminary. While certain decaf coffees, such as Aldi's Beaumont Classic Decaf, may disappoint in flavor and aroma, expanding one's morning ritual with diverse beverages can offer both enjoyment and potential health benefits.