If you can’t start your day without a cup of joe, you’re not alone. 

Americans are the largest consumers of coffee, spending nearly $12 billion in 2006 (up from $8 billion in 2001).  Coffee giant, Starbucks, recently raised the price of its coffee drinks by 9 cents, and those who have embraced the “coffee culture” begrudgingly still pay the price for a luxury latte. 

Coffee drinks may be popular but are they healthy or a health risk?  Although caffeinated products usually get a bad rap when it comes to wellness, thousands of scientific papers have been published showing evidence that coffee may have some unique health benefits. 

But the real downside to “luxury” coffee beverages, besides the high price, is all the added calories and fat.      

... read the rest of the story by Subscribing now.