Nutmeg in your morning coffee: A small spice with big benefits
Many people use dietary supplements to improve memory, concentration, or digestive system functions. However, it turns out you only need what's within easy reach. Just a cup of coffee on an empty stomach positively affects the body. It not only awakens the mind but also stimulates the intestines, which significantly impact overall health and well-being. It's worth adding a pinch of a popular spice to your morning coffee that speeds up metabolism and enhances mood.
Nutmeg is a popular spice in Indian cuisine. It's also an indispensable addition to béchamel sauce, not to mention spice blends for gingerbread. For most of the year, however, it often lies forgotten in the spice cupboard, losing its delightful aroma. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg to your coffee and observe how it affects your body. However, exercise caution with the amount. Consumed in excess, it 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 capacity. Contrary to expectations, these two substances consumed in appropriate amounts won't cause a whirlwind in your head – they work perfectly together and even have a calming effect on the nervous system.
People who wish 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 diarrhoea and constipation, and even prevents ulcer formation. It's worth reaching for in times of weakened health. Like other spices, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. 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 beneficial as a stimulating addition to coffee. It has a positive effect on the nervous system, so when added to an evening drink or meal, it facilitates falling asleep and improves sleep quality. Additionally, the essential oils it contains, such as eugenol and myristicin, have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. It can be helpful for those suffering from arthritis.
Watch the daily limit
However, if consumed in excessive amounts, 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 approximately ¼ of a small teaspoon. People with a higher body weight might tolerate a larger amount, but there's no definitive rule. Every body is different, so it's best to assess individually what quantity is suitable. 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 sufficient for home use. It works well in mini versions—not just 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 enjoy coffee with nutmeg, honey, and frothed milk. It also tastes lovely topped with whipped cream.
