Three simple coffee tweaks that could make your morning cup the healthiest drink you drink
A Harvard-trained gastroenterologist says your morning coffee could become the healthiest drink you have—if you add three simple ingredients. In a recent clip that racked up thousands of views, Dr. Saurabh Sethi told followers, “Most people are missing out on three simple additions to their coffee.” He argues that cinnamon, MCT oil, and dark chocolate powder together could lower sugar spikes, boost energy, and support gut health.
In This Article:
1) Cinnamon: a pinch can steady sugar and fight oxidation
First up is cinnamon. Dr. Sethi says, “Just a pinch of cinnamon can help lower blood sugar spikes and add powerful antioxidants.” Healthline notes that cinnamon can lower blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides in diabetics. To minimize potential side effects, many experts recommend using Ceylon cinnamon rather than Cassia, which contains more coumarin.
2) MCT oil: steady energy and brain support
Second is MCT oil, a fat derived from coconut products that comes as a concentrated supplement. Dr. Sethi explains, “MCT oil… gives a steady energy boost, as well as supporting brain health.” MCTs go straight to the liver, where they can be used for energy or turned into ketones. Ketones can cross the blood–brain barrier and provide an alternate brain fuel.
3) Dark chocolate powder: polyphenols for the gut
Finally, dark chocolate powder is recommended. Dr. Sethi says it is “rich in polyphenols, it works with coffee to feed your good gut bacteria.” Studies show polyphenols can increase beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Dark chocolate’s antioxidants may help lower LDL cholesterol, reduce arterial stiffness, improve glucose management, and boost brain health.
Putting it into practice — a mindful morning ritual
Dr. Sethi, 42, is a Harvard-educated gastroenterologist with about 1.3 million Instagram followers. His coffee hack sits alongside his broader caution about gut health, including past advice to limit ibuprofen due to its impact on the gut. If you decide to experiment, start small: use a pinch of cinnamon (preferably Ceylon), a small amount of MCT oil, and a teaspoon of unsweetened dark chocolate powder. Monitor how you feel and talk to your clinician if you have underlying health conditions. This approach reframes coffee from a quick caffeine fix to a potential daily wellness ritual.
