For anyone not planning a trip to Barcelona, thank you for bearing with me through a week solely focused on BCN..and if you are planning a trip, def check out the post The Ultimate Guide to Barcelona 😉
But let’s move on! Today we’re going to chat about a morning ritual I hold near and dear, my coffee routine. As an expat, I’ve been continually searching for a daily “routine”. I’m freelance writing from home during our time abroad and don’t have the traditional work hours I’m used to, like going into an office, having my set fitness teaching schedule and so on. I thought finding a solid daily routine would make this place feel more like home. I’m a creature of habit and I do miss a set daily schedule. Right now though, I’m trying to embrace a very flexible routine. Between a constant flow of visitors and travel, finding a daily structure hasn’t really worked out. So while I work to embrace a more go-with-the-flow attitude, I can at least count on my morning coffee to set my day in the right direction.
I also want to talk about Collagen Peptides. It’s a part of my morning coffee and every time I post about it on Instagram I’ll get some questions about what it is and why I use it. So today I thought I’d share a bit about Vital Proteins and why it’s a must-have for me.
But first, coffee. How do you like your coffee?
Way back in the day I’d do coffee with skim milk and Splenda. I was actually kind of addicted to Splenda. Then four years ago I did my first Whole30. I had to cut Splenda cold turkey from my life. This elimination is probably the biggest thing to stick with me from Whole30. Since that day, I’ve literally never had Splenda again, and am real happy about it. Splenda now grosses me out, whereas before Whole30 I’d eat 2+ packets a day. During Whole30 I’d drink my coffee black. Since then, my coffee has evolved into a powerhouse drink to start my day.
Today, I’m sharing the coffee combo I wake up to every morning. (Side note: if I’m doing intermittent fasting, I’ll have this drink around 1pm instead of first thing in the morning).
Morning Coffee Recipe:
- 2 espresso pods (I use a Nespresso, the vanilla & Dulsau pods are my favorites)
- 1 scoop Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides
- 1/2 scoop Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer
- Generous sprinkling of Ceylon Cinnamon
- Splash of nut milk (almond, coco or hazlenut these days)
My Process
I take 1 espresso shot, add all the other ingredients and blend well with a milk frother (like this one, they are super cheap and make a big difference). Once well-blended I add the other shot of espresso and do a light mixing to finish it off.
I like to slowly sip this mixture every morning, getting all the benefits to start my day off feeling healthy. This cup of joe has approximately 100 calories and 12 grams of protein.
Here’s the breakdown of why I include these ingredients:
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: I sometimes struggle to get enough protein in my day, and collagen peptides gives me a nice jumpstart (10 grams per scoop). Collagen Peptides are a great protein source (without fat and carbs) and are said to enhance hair, skin and nails, improves digestion and boosts joint health. The powder from Vital Proteins has no taste and completely dissolves. A typical serving is two scoops but I only use one each morning since it’s on the pricier side and I need my current stock to last until I move back to America (I definitely filled a carry-on with Vital Proteins products!).
I’m sure you’re asking, does it work? Can I without a doubt prove that it’s making my skin brighter, my nails stronger and improving my joint health? Not really. But even if there’s a slight chance it’s making any sort of impact, isn’t it worth it? I do think including collagen peptides in my daily routine is making a positive impact on my health and that’s why I have it every day and recommend it to others.
Vital Proteins Vanilla Collagen Creamer: The creamer adds a nice vanilla flavor and makes the drink a bit thicker and creamier. It contains energy-boosting MCTs and healthy fats and is free of artificial sweeteners, refined sugars, dairy, and gluten. I’m on a vanilla kick right now. When the Fall season comes back around I will definitely be switching to the Gingerbread flavor, YUM.
Ceylon Cinnamon: I used to think all cinnamon powders were created equal. Turns out, they aren’t. Though more expensive, opt for Ceylon Cinnamon to reap the benefits. Ceylon is said to support your immune health, can help lower blood sugar and may help manage blood pressure. I use Simply Organic available on Amazon.
Nut Milk: This just really makes the coffee seem more indulgent and delicious if you ask me. Always opt for the sugar-free option and look for milks with the least amount of ingredients. When I was in the US I’d make my own cashew milk. I don’t have a powerful enough blender here, so I buy store bought, always sugar free and without carrageenan.
Travel Hack: I love to bring this style of coffee on the go with me too! It’s not a great idea to bring a bag of white powder while traveling, so check out the individual stick packets of Vital Proteins.
PS–When I was in the US and feeling real fancy I’d do more of a bulletproof style coffee, adding Fourth & Heart Madagascar Vanilla Ghee and Bulletproof Brain Octane Oil, neither of which I have access to in Spain. Everything gets super frothy in my Vitamix (which is currently in storage in SF and I can’t wait to be reunited!). When I’m back stateside these will probably make their way back into my coffee mix.
This power coffee gives me the jolt of energy I need, plus I feel really good about all the ingredients that make up this special drink.
If you’re a coffee drinker, please share how you like your cup in the AM!
