Performance Pumpkin Spice

Oh yes, you read that right... we're one-upping your favorite Starbucks creation and turning it into a performance-enhancing treat. The Starbuck's pumpkin spice latte is packed with sugar and doesn't have very many redeeming qualities. Today I'll share a version that you should definitely drink before your next long hammer ride (or whatever it is you do!) to see performance benefits.

Some people think coffee is somehow bad for you, but here's my conclusion: it's not and it's delicious. I am a regular coffee drinker, but I'm also a very nervous athlete so for a long time I avoided drinking coffee before races. Then one day in the spring of 2008 I was desperate: I hadn't PRed on my 2k erg test in 2 years and I had one last shot for the season. Figuring it couldn't get any worse, I downed a cup of coffee before the test... and PRed by 5 seconds. (For those of you who don't know, this is a ~7 minute test so 5 seconds is pretty significant, especially after not improving for 2 years.) Turns out, the science backs this, caffeine is really performance enhancing.

This pumpkin spice latte is made with pure pumpkin, coconut milk (those medium chain triglycerides will definitely help too!) and strong coffee. If that's not enough, it's flavored with cinnamon and ginger, two herbs that are known to be anti-inflammatory.

Pumpkin Spice Latte

1c strong coffee

2T pureed pumpkin

1/2c coconut milk

2 drops vanilla

dashes of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves

maple syrup to taste

Brew an extra-strong pot of coffee (or use your espresso maker). In a blender, combine pumpkin, coconut milk, vanilla, and spices. Puree until smooth, then transfer to a microwave safe mug. Microwave for 1 minute or until warm. Add a splash of maple syrup & stir. Pour yourself a cup of that coffee and top it off with the pumpkin spice creation. Enjoy and get ready to kill it on your ride/ long run/ hike/ life in general!