A pinch of nutmeg in coffee: The secret to boosting mood and metabolism
Many people use dietary supplements to improve memory, concentration, or digestive system function. However, you only need to use what's within arm's reach. A cup of coffee on an empty stomach can positively impact the body. It not only wakes up the mind but also the intestines, significantly affecting overall condition and well-being. It's worth adding a pinch of a popular spice to your morning coffee, which speeds up metabolism and improves mood.
Nutmeg is a popular spice in Indian cuisine and an indispensable addition to béchamel sauce, not to mention spice blends for gingerbread. For most of the year, however, it lies forgotten in the spice container, losing its beautiful aroma. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg to your coffee and see how it affects your body. Be careful with the amount, though, as consuming it in excess can lead to poisoning.
What properties does nutmeg have?
The spice, with its characteristic slightly nutty aroma, has a stimulating effect. Like morning coffee, it signals to the body that it's time to wake up and operate at full speed. Contrary to appearances, these two substances, when consumed in appropriate amounts, won't cause a whirlwind in your head—they cooperate perfectly and even have a calming effect on the nervous system.
People who want to maintain a healthy body weight will appreciate nutmeg for its impact on the digestive system. The spice boosts metabolism, helps combat bloating and indigestion, soothes diarrhea and constipation, and even prevents ulcer formation. It’s worth reaching for in moments of weakened health. Like other spices, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Additionally, it influences the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone.
A pinch in your morning coffee and a bit in a drink for a good night's sleep
Nutmeg is not only a stimulating addition to coffee, but It has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, and when added to an evening drink or meal, it facilitates falling asleep and improves sleep quality. The essential oils it contains, such as eugenol and myristicin, have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help those suffering from arthritis.
Watch the daily limit
However, excessive amounts of the spice can cause side effects such as hallucinations, consciousness disorders, fainting, or gastrointestinal issues. A safe amount is only half a gram daily, which is literally ¼ of a small teaspoon. People with a higher body weight might respond positively to a larger amount, but there's no rule. Everybody is different, so it's best to assess individually what quantity is sufficient. Children and pregnant women should not exceed the recommended dose.
How to grind nutmeg?
Spice stored whole will retain its freshness and valuable properties much longer than when ground. To add a bit to your coffee, simply grate it using a fine grater. Special nutmeg grinders are also available on the market, but a grater is more than enough for home use. It works well in mini versions—not only for nutmeg but also for grating ginger or cinnamon sticks.
Coffee with nutmeg – Serving suggestion
If you drink coffee on an empty stomach, a bit of spice added to regular black coffee from a coffee maker or espresso machine works best. Coffee with sweet additions is not recommended before a meal due to the risk of an insulin spike. After breakfast, you can serve coffee with nutmeg, a touch of honey, and frothed milk. It also tastes great, topped with whipped cream.
