Multiple studies have demonstrated the potential of green tea as a tool for weight loss; recently, Japanese research suggests that drinking five cups of green tea daily can help the average person to burn an extra 80 calories a day through an effect called thermogenesis — the process of heat production in organisms. Although the natural caffeine content is partly responsible for this, studies show that epigallocatechin gallate found in green tea, more commonly known as EGCG, also helps boost metabolism. Although 80 calories may not seem like a lot, regular green tea drinkers can lose up to seven pounds a year without dieting or exercise. Look below to find out all the ways in which green tea can help you achieve your weight loss goals!

1. Green tea increases your energy expenditure & burns fat:

As we stated above, green tea revs up your metabolism, which results in a significant increase in energy expenditure. A study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that over a 24-hour period, green tea extract heightens the metabolic rate by 4%. Green tea contains high concentrations of catechin polyphenols, plant-based substances that are known to improve health, which intensify levels of fat oxidation, as well as the rate at which your body burns calories.

2. Green tea inhibits fat absorption:

Catechins in green tea help to fight off the movement of glucose into fat cells, resulting in a reduction in body fat. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition supports this claim, asserting that daily consumption of tea containing catechins might be useful in the “prevention and improvement of lifestyle-related diseases, mainly obesity.” As a glucose regulator, green tea may slow down the rise in blood sugar after a meal, which inhibits insulin spikes and subsequent fat storage.

3. Green tea may help reduce appetite:

Because of green tea’s effect on regulating blood sugar, it helps to greatly reduce your appetite. A study at the University of Chicago found that rats injected with green tea extract lost up to 21 percent of their body fat and consumed up to 60 percent less food. From preventing fat storage to improving cardiovascular strength, green tea offers a multitude of health benefits that everyone can take advantage of — whether or not you’re trying to lose weight.

Reusable k-cup filters work exclusively with the B40 Elite, B50 Ultra and B60 Special Edition Keurig coffee makers. Made of a mesh metal filter with durable plastic framing, the My K-cup Reusable Coffee Filter can be used dozens of times and with any type of coffee. To use, just scoop two tablespoons of ground coffee into the filter and insert the k-cup into your Keurig brewer. After brewing, remove the filter and rinse it clean under running water. The process is quick, convenient and hassle-free, and you still get the wonderful taste of Keurig brewed coffee.

Frugal coffee lovers should take note that k-cup reusable filters are very cost-effective. Filling the reusable filter with your favorite ground coffee saves you the expense of buying the equivalent number of k-cups. The My K-cup Reusable Coffee Filter is also a great option for people who are transitioning from a drip coffee maker to a Keurig Home Brewing System and don’t want to waste the bags of ground coffee they already own. With the reusable k-cup, simply scoop the ground coffee into the filter and you’re ready to brew. My K-cup Reusable Filters offer an economical alternative to brewing your favorite coffee.

Brew coffee at a push of a button: Preparing your drip coffee maker in the morning can be an arduous process: Before you’re even able to push the start button, you must scoop and measure your coffee grounds, insert a filter, then fill the reservoir with the appropriate amount of water. Single cup coffee brewing whittles this process down to a couple easy steps: Insert single-serving coffee into the machine and push start. It’s as easy as that. K-cups, for example, help minimize your coffee prep time because they already contain a pre-measured serving of coffee, as well as a built-in filter. When using single cup coffees, the most difficult task required is picking out your coffee blend.

Choose from a variety of flavors and blends: One of the top complaints from people who use drip machines is that they get tired of drinking the same type of coffee day after day. Coffee pods, k-cups and t-discs are conveniently packaged in single serving portion packs and sealed for freshness, meaning that you don’t have to worry about opening up an entire bag of beans. With single-serving coffee, you have a choice of a variety of flavors and blends each time you brew. Feeling like you need an extra strong cup of joe this morning? Try an extra bold coffee pod. Want something flavorful and nourishing? Go for a French Vanilla single serve flavor. Individual cup brewing is a great way to personalize your coffee experience and add some variety to your coffee routine.

“Flavor that’s anything but wicked”: Green Mountain Wicked Winter Blend K-Cup offers a fresh and exciting flavor that’s sure to make you forget it’s freezing outside. This Fair Trade coffee blends the earthy flavors of Indonesian coffee with the uplifting powers of Central and South American beans. The taste is bright, mellow, sweet and nutty, which is exactly how you’ll feel after swigging a cup of this special Green Mountain blend.

“It’s got body for days”: The unique body of the Wicked Winter Blend is described as “chewy” by many and delectable by all. Notes of caramel and chocolate make this Green Mountain k-cup blend thick and wholesome, never syrupy or bitter. The full body of the Wicked Winter Blend offers a mouthful of flavor.

“A bold punch for your taste buds”: Wicked Winter Blend’s dark roast is what makes this cold weather blend stand out. Expertly roasted and wonderfully bold, this Green Mountain k-cup provides a powerful punch with every sip. The Wicked Winter Blend also offers balanced acidity and supple smoothness, which makes it easy to drink any time of day. A tip from seasoned k-cup drinkers: This coffee blend is strong enough to use the large cup size setting on your Keurig single cup brewer without getting watered down.

“The finish is the best part”: You’ll love the satisfying finish the Wicked Winter Blend leaves in your mouth. The nutty undertones combined with the toasty caramel flavor offers a delightfully sweet finish that lingers long after your mug is clean. Be certain to pick up this Green Mountain specialty coffee flavor soon; it’s a limited edition blend that’s only available in the wicked weather months.

Cigar flavors are often described by those within the industry with terms such as acidic, salty, bitter, sweet, smooth, heavy, full-bodied, rich and balanced. Many of my friends who enjoy a good stick from time to time tend to use what is known by certain industry giants as “food language” (coffee, chocolate, spice, leather, etc.) Many of these terms are also used within my circle of friends in regards to coffee.

I tend to use a mix of the above terminology when speaking about coffee and cigars. Below I will present a basic outline of how I would pair cigars with coffees based upon their respective strengths and offer a few recommendations.

Mild Cigars

Recommendations: Sol Cubano Connecticut, 5 Vegas Gold, Chateau Real

In my experience mild cigars are often described as “creamy” and generally display notes of wood and cedar. Mild cigars may or may not have a little spice to them depending on the brand you choose, and tend to pair well with milder coffees such as Timothy’s Coffee  breakfast blend, or Green Mountain Coffee’s Breakfast blend. Both of which offer smooth and mild flavors that will nicely compliment a milder cigar.

Medium Cigars

Recommendations: Romeo y Julieta 1875, Cohiba Red Dot

Medium bodied cigars are more robust than their mild counterparts. Boasting a richer flavor and often times providing noticeable hints of spice. One can occasionally expect a subtle sweetness from medium bodied cigars. From my perspective medium bodied cigars go best with medium roast coffees that offer a little more kick than your traditional breakfast blends. My personal favorite coffees to sip while enjoying such a cigar include Tully’s Kona Blend, Gloria Jeans Coffee Special Blend and Green Mountain Coffee Nantucket Blend.

Full Bodied Cigars

Recommendations: Punch, Cu-Avana Intenso, Macanudo Robust

Full bodied cigars often produce intense and complex flavors. One can expect to find varied notes of cocoa, leather, earth and other robust flavors in addition to bold and spicy nuances with each puff manifesting a stronger taste than the last. As one might imagine such a bold smoke demands an equally bold coffee. Some coffees that pair well with full bodied cigars include; Green Mountain Coffee Newman’s Own Special Blend Extra Bold, Green Mountain Coffee Dark Magic Extra Bold, and Diedrich Coffee French Roast.

This post was written by our customer and guest blogger Nathan D.

Nathan is a musician, graphic/web designer, blogger and social media marketing Technician. He plays in a band called Jabooda based in Southbridge, MA. His passions include God, his wife,  music, art, food, coffee, beer, wine and cigars.

For many coffee drinkers, coffee is incomplete without a little sweetener. Splenda is one of the most popular sweetener products, known for offering the taste of real sugar without any of the calories. Splenda contains sucralose — a zero calorie sweetener that is hailed for having no unpleasant aftertaste. In addition to sweetening up your morning mug, Splenda can be used in any recipe that calls for sugar. Look below to find out how no calorie sugar substitutes can make your day a little sweeter.

For Disease Prevention: People with diabetes have to closely monitor their blood sugar levels and make appropriate lifestyle changes to ensure optimum health. We’ve heard that drinking coffee can keep diabetes in check; studies also show that using sweeteners in place of sugar can help fend off disease symptoms. Numerous research trials have demonstrated that sugar substitutes like Splenda are suitable for people with diabetes because they do not affect blood glucose levels. Splenda is considered a “free food” by the American Diabetes Association, as it has no effect on carbohydrate metabolism or insulin secretion. Splenda is a great option for anyone concerned about their blood sugar levels.

For Weight Management: Sugar-laden coffee beverages may taste delicious, but they can be more than a burden to your waistline. Void of calories, Splenda tastes just like the real thing, but doesn’t contain sugar’s empty calories. It actually can help you decrease your caloric intake when using it in place of sugar. In fact, many diet food products on the market use Splenda to lower the caloric load. You can incorporate Splenda into your diet in a variety of ways: By adding it to your baked goods, sprinkling it in your afternoon latte, or putting it on top of your breakfast cereal and fruit. With Splenda, you can have the flavor of real sugar without any of the guilt.

For Convenience:

Splenda is about 600 times sweeter than natural sugar, meaning that you only need a little to give your coffee the kick of sweetness it needs. Most sugar substitute products come in convenient single-serving packages; this makes it easy to sweeten up your drink on the run. Coffee For Less offers Splenda in single size packets, which makes adding the appropriate amount to your coffee simple. No-calorie sweeteners like Splenda are perfect for anyone concerned about their health and weight, and looking to add some efficiency to their day.

• Sleek new design: The Keurig B155 features a stylish design that will instantly enhance your kitchen or office space. Streamlined and silver, the B155 offers cutting edge brewing technology in a modern, sleek exterior.
• Advanced technology: The B155 k-cup brewer comes equipped with an updated LCD Touch Screen. This exciting new feature is state of the art and incredibly easy to operate. Along with offering touch-and-brew technology, the LCD panel is also programmed with three language settings, making it great for multilingual office communities.
• Wider temperature range: To make it even easier to customize your coffee, the Keurig B155 provides a wide range temperature setting. This feature is great for households or offices where preferences vary when it comes to heat level. For those who like their coffee piping hot, you can set the brew temp to up to 198 degrees; for people more sensitive to heat, you can program the setting to as low as 188 degrees.
• Multiple brew sizes and larger water reservoir: There are four different cup sizes to choose from on the Keurig B155: 4 oz, 6 oz, 8 oz and 10 oz. This feature allows you to control the strength or weakness of your cup of joe, catering to various taste preferences. The B155 also offers a large water reservoir capacity. At 90 oz, the new water reservoir allows you to brew more cups of coffee per fill.
• Quiet brewing: The quiet brew noise reduction in the B155 causes less disturbance in your home or office than most typical coffee makers. This means that your co-workers will no longer get cranky when you get up to make your fifth coffee of the day; in fact, they probably won’t even notice! The Keurig B155 is an ideal single cup brewer for anyone looking for a professional-grade coffee maker with advanced technology and a stylish design.

Thank you to all the applicants for making the spring scholarship a great success!!  The next “Hit the Books” Scholarship will be awarded in October 2010. Please submit your essays no later than September 30, 2010.

For more information please see the Coffee For Less Scholarship Page.

I remember a day…  We had been driving in Vermont; someone was coming or going from the airport. We always stop at a little convenience store on Grand Isle for a cup of coffee and less expensive gasoline.  I asked for my usual hazelnut, but the coffee he brought back to the car filled the space with the most delicious aroma.

“What are you drinking?  Wow!”

“Golden French Toast, I can’t get it at home; this is a treat!”

I soon abandoned my cup and sipped his all the way home.  It smelled like maple, with a touch of vanilla, and perhaps a little cinnamon and it had some other kind of magic I haven’t yet been able to name.  I was hooked.

Often, a flavored coffee smells great, but its taste doesn’t live up to its advance publicity.  If you put a clothespin on your nose, you would think you were drinking a regular, non-flavored coffee.  Golden French Toast is different.  It carries the maple and the spices to both your nose and your tongue, and I swear I can even detect a hint of creamy butter.  Maybe it’s just my imagination, or the maple syrup could be dripping from the corner of my mouth.  However, the aroma and the flavor don’t overwhelm the brew; you feel like you’re drinking a delicious cup of java, not a melted-down plate of breakfast.  I am pretty fussy about cream and sugar with this precious commodity:  half and half or creamer (un- flavored, very important), and half a teaspoon of brown sugar.  O.k., table sugar usually has to do.  This coffee even smells great cold at the bottom of the cup (if there’s any left). My students have come into the classroom and said “What smells so good?”  I don’t bother to tell them it’s my empty coffee cup; they’d never believe it.

Green Mountain Golden French Toast K-Cup Coffee isn’t always easy to find.  It’s only available from January through March of each year.  I think Green Mountain has planned it strategically to help us endure the cabin-fever days, the lack of sunlight, the snow…(In late December, when I didn’t think I could wait any longer, I even looked on E-Bay, thinking some of last year’s supply would be left over.  No such luck.  Everyone who loves this coffee buys it all and hoards it, apparently.)  Coffee For Less was kind enough to alert us on Facebook to the release of this year’s K-cups.  So as soon as possible, I put in my order.  Then I drank a whole lot of Golden French Toast and had to order again.  Come to think of it, I’m sure I don’t have enough to last until spring… CFL, here I come again.

This post was written by our customer and guest blogger Beth N.

I tend to choose flavored coffee instead of the boring regular ones. I don’t like to add sugar in my coffee and only use the creamers that are either sweet or coconut flavored. I have tried my coffee with just regular milk, but I need something with a little more flavor.  One of the reasons I do not use sugar in my coffee is that the flavored coffee and the cream make my cup of joe sweet enough.  Ironically, I’m not into the French Vanilla or Hazelnut blends. I need more flavor and strong aroma.  My Family and I enjoy the Donut Shop, Green Mountain and Caribou blend. They are always a hit!  My repeat flavors are usually good when I’m in a rush but I do like going back to double check to see which new flavors have been added.

Recently at work they added a Keurig K-Cup Machine to the break room. This is a welcomed new addition to the work place. However, I think it strange that they charge 25 cents to use the machine. To get a great cup of coffee, I’ll pay the money. Ironically, I still have to pay the money even though I’m using my K-Cups from home because I don’t like the flavors that they have ordered. I guess to get a good cup of flavored coffee at work I’ll have to pay the 25 cents or buy one of those great single cup machines for my desk!  Well, I’m going downstairs to get myself a good cup of Southern Pecan Coffee since I need something to pick me up and a fresh cup of coffee sounds just GREAT!

This post was written by our customer and guest blogger Beth S.

Beth lives in Central New Jersey with her husband Gary and two children. Her son Matt is in college, and daughter Alyssa is a junior in High School. Professionally she is a buyer. She makes coffee almost every day upon arriving home from work before heading out to drive her daughter to dance or sports. In her spare time, Beth enjoys camping, bicycling, walking and reading.