Coffee drinkers have alternatives to sugar and flavored creamers that can contribute to health issues.

Coffee is essential for daily function – at least to some of us.

However, what can be a great start to the day can also pose certain health risks if not used properly. Few people enjoy coffee straight. They like to add a little something to it, or in some cases, a lot of something. Usually that consists of sugar or flavored creamers that consist of ingredients that cause the body a great deal of harm in the long run.

We are hardly suggesting fat-free or sugar-free products (they’re pointless). You shouldn’t have to compromise between flavor and health benefits. You can have both. Here are four things to add to your coffee that won’t give you or your doctor a headache:

1) Ginger

Add a dash or two of ginger (powder form) before you add cream. Stir and enjoy. Ginger is a natural remedy for motion sickness, nausea and migraines. Studies have also shown that it helps fight cancer and can reduce inflammation. Not only does your coffee taste better, that headache you arrived at the office with is gone.

2) Cinnamon

Whether it’s an actual cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon, this is another great way to naturally boost coffee. Including cinnamon in your diet has been proven to improve the immune system, strengthen your heart, and regulate blood sugar. Women, if you’re dealing with hellacious cramps (let’s be real, we’ve all been there at one point), try cinnamon instead of over the counter pain relievers.

3) Vanilla

We’re not talking about the French vanilla-flavored creamer you already put in coffee. Seriously, check the ingredients on the bottle.
We’re not talking imitation vanilla, either. We mean the good stuff, the kind you use when you bake Christmas cookies. Add a dash to coffee prior to adding cream for a splash of flavor. Vanilla has been shown to help prevent and treat sickle cell disease as well as fight cancer. Something so simple has so many more benefits than the flavor of your coffee.

4) Honey

We know you may need something sweet. We have just the thing. Add a drizzle to sweeten that morning cup, or cups. Honey helps reduce inflammation, has amazing powers for coping with hangovers (see inflammation reduction), helps regulate blood sugar and improves overall digestion.

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