At Attitude Organic we are big fan of coffee and we love any type of cappuccino and latte. But the other day, coffee surprised us in an unexpected way. It was all black, and by black we do not mean a black Parisian coffee but an activated charcoal latte. We decided that it worth a try and further investigation. Read below to discover more about this new coffee trend!
What is a charcoal latte
At first, you will be surprised to learn that an activated charcoal latte does not contain any coffee. Of course you can add a spoon of espresso powder in your drink preparation if you do it at home but do not expect it to wake you up in the morning before work.
This type of latte is actually a black hot drink made from activated charcoal powder and the milk you prefer. It is usually prepared with almond milk.
This drink is buzzing on the social media for two main reasons: it is very pretty on your Instagram feed and it is supposed to detox your body. Indeed, people claim that it is a perfect digestive cleaner and hangover remedy.
Are charcoal latte healthy?
Considering all the actual healthy trends available, you are right to ask.
The pros
Activated charcoal acts as a toxin magnet. Thus it is amazing for intestinal health and soaks up toxins which can prevent poisonous substances to hurt you. This is why it is now mainly used to treat overdoses.
However, it started also being used for digestion, cleansing and detoxification. Some studies proved that it helps reducing bad cholesterol and helping with brain fog.
The cons
As explained above, activated charcoal soaks up the toxins but the thing to know it that it also soaks up nutrients and medication. From this point of view, your delicious latte could actually be counterproductive and even dangerous.
Attitude Organic Advice on charcoal latte
You should try it! It is fun, it tastes good and it is sooooo pretty! However make sure that you have it 3 hours away from your meals and that you are not on medication while trying it.
Also about these detoxing properties, you can give it a go on a hangover day and see how it works for you but do not take it as a detox cure, it is not as good!
Charcoal latte recipe
If you do want to try this drink but are not willing to spend more than 5 euros for it, have a look at our charcoal latte recipe. Let’s admit it is pretty expensive in coffee shops!
Ingredients for 2 servings:
- 3 cups of almond milk (or any other type of milk that you enjoy more)
- 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- Your favourite sweetener (honey, sugar, stevia…)
- 1 teaspoon of espresso powder (optional)
Heat the milk in a saucepan until it steams and add your sweetener. Place the sweet warm milk, the activated charcoal and the vanilla into a blender. Mix until it is creamy and serve!
We hope that you will have a delicious 10 minutes tasting. Share your impressions with us. If you look for other recipes, check our healthy food page.
Let’s be yummy and healthy together!
XOXO
Attitude Organic
