How To Make An Easy Chocolate

There's been some debate about whether coffee is good for gut health. A terrifying question for us coffee lovers, but we're in luck because the verdict is in: It's not the best if you're loading every cup with added refined sugar, a la traditional coffee creamers. But if you're drinking black coffee or adding in minimal natural sweeteners, it can actually increase the diversity in the gut microbiome1. (Not to mention, benefit brain, heart, and metabolic health.) Major sigh of relief.

After hearing this good news, we spent some time brainstorming about how to make coffee taste even better without all of the added sugar. The result? We landed on an iced chocolate shaken espresso that will leave your skin glowing and your gut happy.* You may think it sounds too frothy and decadent to be good for you, but trust when we say: This is one of the tastiest and healthiest ways to drink that daily cup... or two.

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The star ingredient is mbg's chocolate beauty & gut collagen+. Made with organic cocoa and sweetened with organic monk fruit, it delivers a rich chocolate flavor with zero sugar, or questionable ingredients, for that matter.

A powerful daily ritual for glowing skin and a healthy gut.*

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But our collagen powder offers more than just a tasty flavor profile: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides have been shown to promote skin elasticity and hydration2, promote strong hair and nails, and support a healthy intestinal lining3.* On top of that, our formula folds in even more beauty-enhancing extras, like hyaluronic acid, curcumin, and vitamins C and E to protect cells from oxidative stress.*

Of course, if you're trying to limit your caffeine intake, decaf espresso is an easy substitute. Now, let's dive into the recipe:

Now that we know coffee can be good for your gut and how to enhance its gut-supporting benefits, there aren't many arguments against this treasured daily ritual.* Not to mention, it's a very simple recipe to make (even on busy mornings!). And if you're not a fan of coffee, you can always opt for a cozy hot chocolate to reap the same benefits.*

A powerful daily ritual for glowing skin and a healthy gut.*

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"An incredible supplement that helps your skin from multiple angles"*

Alexandra Engler,mbg Beauty & Lifestyle Senior Editor

Hannah Frye is the Assistant Beauty Editor at mindbodygreen. She has a B.S. in journalism and a minor in women's, gender, and queer studies from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Hannah has written across lifestyle sections including health, wellness, sustainability, personal development, and more. She previously interned for Almost 30, a top-rated health and wellness podcast. In her current role, Hannah reports on the latest beauty trends, holistic skincare approaches, must-have makeup products, and inclusivity in the beauty industry. She currently lives in New York City.