I didn't always love coffee. Shocking, I know!

I didn't even like the smell of it until after I had my second child. I was so exhausted I gave it a try, and now I start my day with a cup of mushroom coffee mixed with coconut oil and collagen, and I honestly love it.

Coffee and caffeine create some tension in the health community, so let's look at some facts.

• A cup of coffee typically contains 80-90 milligrams of caffeine. Studies suggest up to 400 milligrams per day (about four cups of coffee) is generally safe.
• Not to mention, the source of your coffee can contain pesticides, herbicides, mold, and chemicals added during roasting.
• Coffee actually has some amazing benefits like helping your estrogen metabolism, improving metabolic health, blood sugar management and brain health!
• Caffeine is a stimulant, helping to wake up your brain. It's also a diuretic, which means it can make you go to the bathroom more. Focus on more hydration with minerals to counteract the dehydration.

If you're using caffeine to combat constant exhaustion, it might be time to evaluate your overall health, particularly your adrenal function.

Some people metabolize caffeine quickly, while others do so slowly. Knowing your genetic factors can help you manage your intake. I metabolize caffeine quickly, so an afternoon cup doesn't impact my sleep.

Cycle Syncing: Coffee is warming, which can be beneficial during different phases of your cycle. For instance, during the progesterone phase (days 15-28), you might find yourself enjoying an extra cup to get through the day.

Coffee isn't inherently bad for your hormones. Problems arise with too much caffeine and quality of coffee.

• 1-2 Cups a Day: Generally safe and unlikely to negatively impact your hormones.
• Listen to Your Body: If coffee disrupts your sleep or you find yourself needing more to get through the day, it's time to reassess.
• Find a "cleaner" source: Look for coffee that is certified organic or biodynamic. Some coffee brands have their coffee tested for mycotoxins and pesticides by third-party labs. Coffee grown at high altitudes is less likely to produce mold. Wet-processed/hand-picked and hand-processed coffees may be higher quality
• Focus on getting enough rest, minerals, and healthy fats.

Remember, everyone's experience with coffee and caffeine is different. Coffee is a delicious and beneficial substance, but as always, listen to your body.

So, how do you take your coffee?

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