Morning Latte Provides Nine Nutrients Boost

"Breakfast with milk – whether in a latte, your cereal or straight from a glass – can help you feel satisfied, focused and energized, so you can make the most of your day...every day," said Carolyn O'Neil, MS, RD., co-author of The Dish on Eating Healthy and Being Fabulous!

25 Sep 2012 --- There's good news for the millions of Americans who start each day with a cup of coffee. Making a latte at home for breakfast is not only a delicious start to the day, but it can provide much-needed nutrients including calcium, vitamin D and potassium, that most Americans are lacking. Your morning latte delivers a full serving of milk's nine essential nutrients, including eight grams of high quality protein – even more than an egg.

"Breakfast with milk – whether in a latte, your cereal or straight from a glass – can help you feel satisfied, focused and energized, so you can make the most of your day...every day," said Carolyn O'Neil, MS, RD., co-author of The Dish on Eating Healthy and Being Fabulous! "I love making a latte at home to make sure I start the day right with key nutrients we all need – including calcium and vitamin D for strong bones, protein for lean muscle and B vitamins for energy."

At a time when specialty coffeehouse prices can be high, being your own barista at home could also help save you money. For only a quarter a serving, coffee's latte counterpart – milk – adds nutrients without breaking the bank.

Whatever your personal latte order, the National Milk Mustache "got milk?" Campaign has at-home recipes for easy ways to make your morning latte the way you like it. Whether it's a simple two parts milk, one part espresso drink or a triple shot with extra foam, caramel drizzle and cinnamon, being your own barista is as easy as:

- Espress-o Yourself: Thinking about getting an espresso machine? Great! If not, no problem... just brew your coffee beans stronger than usual.
- Get Frothy with It: Milk frothers are a great gift. But you can also heat the milk on the stove or in the microwave, then whisk for extra foam.
- Have Fun with Flavor: Check your spice cabinet to add great flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg.  You can also buy your favorite syrups for a coffee shop-worthy flavor boost.