According to a survey by the Specialty Coffee Association, 67 percent of Americans drink coffee regularly. This makes sense; it’s rich in flavor and an energizing pick-me-up, but for those looking for a new and unique take on the traditional cup-o-joe, adding lemon to your java might help take it to the next level. So, can you drink coffee with lemon? The answer is yes — and here’s why it’s a great idea.
First, many people add lemon to their cup of daily joe to brighten up the flavor and to capitalize on the potential health benefits of both components. Coffee is packed with antioxidants, which may help fight inflammation and protect against heart disease and cancer. Lemon is a good source of vitamin C and also contains other antioxidants. Combining these two can provide several beneficial combinations.
The acidity and powerful flavor of lemon can also complement the flavor of coffee and make it less bitter. Adding lemon also makes it healthier, as it replaces the need for high-calorie cream and sugar. Lemon adds more flavor without a lot of calories, so it can be a great addition to any cup of coffee.
Furthermore, adding a lemon to your cup of Joe may provide additional health benefits. According to some nutritionists, the combination may help with digestion, boost energy levels and improve concentration. Drinking coffee with lemon may also lower the levels of cortisol, a hormone linked to stress, in the blood. Additionally, if you have an upset stomach, adding lemon to coffee may soothe it.
It is important to remember, however, that coffee is a potent stimulant and that lemon can aggravate or increase the acidic levels in the body. Be sure to use fresh lemons and not processed lemon juice and talk to your doctor about coffee-lemon mixtures if you are taking any medication. These additives could interact negatively with certain medications.
The best way to add lemon to your cup of joe is to slice the lemon and add one or two slices to your mug. If you don’t like the sour taste, add more slices of lemon and some honey for a hint of sweetness. You can also add citrus zest for added flavor.
Does Lemon Reduce Caffeine Content?
Although drinking coffee with lemon has its advantages, one thing it doesn’t do is reduce the caffeine content. Contrary to popular belief, adding lemon to coffee won’t lessen its impact on the body. It’s the same amount of caffeine, but the lemon may mask some of the flavors, which makes the coffee more enjoyable to drink.
Is It Beneficial To Add Lemon To Iced Coffee?
Absolutely! Adding a slice of lemon to iced coffee has many of the same benefits as adding it to a hot cup of coffee. It can still help to enhance the flavor and give you a feeling of refreshment that is perfect for a warm summer day. You can use a real lemon, or make a flavored lemon simple syrup and use that to sweeten your iced coffee.
What Other Flavors Complement Coffee?
Some of the most popular flavors to add to coffee are vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. All of these spices offer complementary notes to coffee and make for a great addition to traditional espresso drinks like cappuccinos and lattes. You can also try adding different fruits, like oranges and raspberries, or different spirits and liqueurs to your drink for a new flavor experience.
What Are The Benefits Of Drinking Organic Coffee?
In addition to the many health benefits of drinking coffee, buying organic coffee is also beneficial for both environmental and ethical reasons. Organic coffee is grown sustainably, so it is better for the environment in the long run. It is also grown in a way that is better for the farmers, ensuring they are treated and paid fairly and are not exposed to harmful chemicals.
Can You Use Lemon Extract To Add Flavor To Coffee?
If you don’t have fresh lemons, you can also use lemon extract for flavoring. Lemon extract is a concentrated flavoring ingredient that can easily be added to coffee for a powerful lemon flavor. While it won’t provide any of the health benefits that come with using fresh lemon, it does offer a strong flavor hit. Just a few drops can brighten up a cup of coffee without making it too tart.
