This low-calorie drink, which has been linked to countless health benefits, certainly does a body good. But there are ways that we can get a better brew. By following the seven tips outlined below, we can take our java from heavenly to healthy:

When It Comes To Beans, Lighter Is Better

In the world of coffee beans, lighter is better. Coffee beans contain compounds called chlorogenic acids, which are converted into antioxidants by the roasting process. However, the longer the roasting process continues, the more likely they are to break down again, costing you their benefits. So when you’re shopping for your bag of beans, opt for a light roast, original blend, or blonde roast.

Pass On The Sugar

Coffee may be a healthy drink, but the fastest way to kill its benefits is to load it down with sugar. While a sugar cube may make your bitter beverage more palatable, it can adds calories, contributes to risk for diseases like Type II diabetes, and can cause sugar rushes and crashes. Artificial sweeteners may seem like a better option, given that they are sugar free and calorie free, but studies show that the chemicals in artificial sweeteners can be quite toxic, and, in some cases, carcinogenic.

If you need a sweet note in your java, opt for Stevia instead.

Go Organic And Fair Trade

As with many foods, there is a range of quality depending on the growing process. Non-organic coffee beans are often doused in pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals and toxins which have been linked to various health conditions. Whole bean organic coffee will deliver the purest product, so opt for whole bean bags over ground bags.