The 3 PM Slump: Iced Coffee That Keeps Me Going

Hey Healthi Family, it's Coach Delicia! Something you may not know about me is that I'm a teacher. Not just any teacher, but a millennial teacher. This means I’m juggling tiny humans, lesson plans, and the constant question, "Why, Mrs. D, why?" all while trying to maintain my sanity. Let’s just say, caffeine is my best friend, especially when the dreaded 3 PM slump hits. But here’s the thing—I’m not talking about your basic, overpriced iced coffee. I’m talking about a concoction that’s not only delicious but also fits into a healthier lifestyle, helping me stay on track with my weight loss goals.Balancing a hectic schedule with a commitment to a healthier lifestyle isn’t easy. We all have our vices; for me, coffee is more than just a morning ritual—it’s a lifeline.

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But with a focus on weight loss, I’ve had to rethink my go-to pick-me-up. Instead of reaching for sugary, calorie-laden beverages, I’ve crafted a version that’s low in sugar but high in flavor, giving me that much-needed boost without derailing my progress.You might be thinking, “Isn't iced coffee all the same?” Trust me, I’ve tried them all. The overly sweet ones, the ones that taste watered-down and sad, and even those weird, frothy creations that look like something out of a science experiment. But this one is the one I've been sipping on all summer long!

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My Go-to Iced Coffee Recipe

Ingredients:

   
• 1 tsp Nespresso Gold (or your favorite instant espresso)
   
• 1/4 cup hot water
   
• 4-6 pumps of your favorite sugar-free syrup (I’m obsessed with half coconut, half white chocolate)
   
• Ice
   
• Milk (almond is my go-to)

Instructions:

   
1. "Brew" your coffee: Toss that teaspoon of Nespresso Gold into 1/4 cup of hot water. Let it cool down a bit—you don’t want to burn yourself!
   
2. Sweeten it up: Add your sugar-free syrup. I’m a big fan of the coconut and white chocolate combo, but feel free to experiment! I have about a dozen different flavors on my counter on any given day.
   
3. Frothy goodness: Grab your frother and go to town. We're aiming for a creamy, frothy texture.
   
4. Ice, ice, baby: Fill your glass about 3/4 full with ice.
   
5. Milk it: Pour in your favorite milk. I’m an almond milk girlie, but you do you!

And there you have it! A teacher-approved, sugar-free iced coffee that will carry you through those long afternoons of circle time and finger painting. It’s like a little sip of heaven in a glass, but more importantly, it’s a small step in maintaining a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing the things you love.

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Healthy Fuel on the Go

As someone who’s always on the go, it’s easy to fall into the trap of convenience—reaching for sugary snacks or drinks just to get through the day. But making mindful choices, like this simple iced coffee, can make a big difference in how you feel and how you progress on your weight loss journey. It’s these small, sustainable changes that add up over time, helping you stay energized, focused, and on track with your goals.Remember, living a healthy lifestyle isn’t about deprivation; it’s about balance and finding alternatives that satisfy your cravings without compromising your well-being. Whether it’s swapping out a high-calorie coffee for this lighter version or finding new ways to incorporate more nutritious foods into your meals, every choice you make is a step toward long-term success.So next time you’re in need of a pick-me-up, give this iced coffee a try. It’s refreshing, flavorful, and won’t break the bank—or your diet. And as you sip on this delicious drink, know that you’re making a choice that supports both your busy life and your commitment to better health.Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some tiny humans to entertain. But with this iced coffee in hand, I’m ready to tackle whatever the day throws my way—one healthy, caffeinated sip at a time.