1. Go Back to Black

No, we are not talking about the late and great Amy Winehouse. Drinking your cup of joe black is a foolproof way to cut calories from your morning coffee. Because coffee is calorie-free you shouldn’t feel any guilt when enjoying your morning coffee sans cream or sugar. Remember to stay hydrated. Coffee, regardless of how it’s enjoyed, can dehydrate you. Drink one extra cup of water for each cup of coffee you consume.

2. Use Milk Instead of Cream

If you can’t stand drinking your coffee black, I understand. But instead of a rich cream that’s loaded with saturated fat, try using milk or a low-fat milk alternative instead. A tablespoon of cream has 40 calories and 4 grams of fat, while a tablespoon of skim milk has only 7 calories and 0 grams of fat. Making simple swaps like this can easily save you a couple hundred calories over the course of a week.

3. Speaking of Cream, Avoid Whipped Cream

Many coffee beverages you buy come with the option of whipped cream. Ask your barista to hold the whipped topping on your coffee. Not only does this pack extra calories and fat, but chances are you’re not eating real whipped cream. Most likely, the whipped cream is loaded with artificial chemicals and hormones that can lead to all sorts of health problems.

4. Realize That Frappuccinos Are Code for ‘Milkshake’

Don’t think you’re ordering a cup of coffee when you order a mocha frappuccino or caramel macchiato. As nice as these words sounds, they’re simply chicer ways of saying ‘milkshake.’ Coffee beverages like this are often loaded with calories, fat, and sugar, making them a total weight gain deathtrap. If you really want something other than a plain cup of coffee, order a skim milk, sugar-free latte.

5. Avoid Rich and Sugar-Laden Syrups

Many coffee shops add syrups for sweetness or flavor. Although these taste great, they’re usually made with high fructose corn syrup, which has been linked to diabetes, insulin resistance, and even kidney damage. If you want to add some flavor to your coffee, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. These calorie-free options are much better for you than sugary syrup.

6. Use Stevia Instead of Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are getting scrutinized in the food world right now, and for good reason. These sweeteners might be calorie-free, but research shows you’re actually MORE likely to be overweight if you consume them on a regular basis. Keep a supply of stevia packets in your purse for your own use. You’ll never succumb to artificial sweeteners again!

7. Pick the Smallest Size

Some large sized coffee drinks can easily pack over 500 calories! There’s no reason anyone should be drinking a beverage with that many calories. Even if you do decide to order a decadent coffee beverage, pick the smallest size available. You’ll still get all the taste of your favorite coffee drink for a much smaller caloric price.

Coffee can be a great low-calorie morning beverage option-if done right. What are some of your favorite ways to enjoy coffee without consuming a ton of calories?