(Image source from: How to make your coffee healthy})

Believe it or not, a cup of coffee is as good and rewarding as a bar of dark chocolate. So it’s time you started believing in the power of your java.

Besides being the numero uno source of antioxidants, quaffing a few cups of coffee a day can significantly cut down your risks of developing type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's, and prostate cancer.

Now, while any coffee will give you the kicks, picking the right roast, brewing and storing it well will ensure that you make the most of your mojo, healthwise too. Read on to know how you can make your coffee really healthy.

THE ROAST
When picking coffee beans, go for the lighter roasts. Dark coffee beans have lesser antioxidants since over-roasting them causes the  compounds called chlorogenic acids to break down.

THE STORAGE
Roasted coffee beans contain free radicals which keeps increasing with exposure. Meaning the longer it's exposed to air, the higher free radicals it's likely to have. As the levels of free radical rises, more and more antioxidants in the beans are spent to stabilize them. Always store your beans in an airtight container and don't grind them until you're ready to brew.

THE BREWING
The Keurig could be convenient, but for more antioxidants, Moka is the way to go. Researchers have  found that coffee brewed in a stovetop Moka pot, an espresso pot, or a Neapolitan-style pot have more antioxidant levels of java than the ones brewed through paper filter.

THE CUP
How do you take your coffee? Black or stirred with milk and sugar. Before you answer, know that coffee in itself is extremely nutritious, and anything you add to it only diminishes its goodness. By adding sugar or sweeteners, you are only stirring in calories and chemicals. Instead add a dash of cinnamon for flavor and enjoy.

AW: Suchorita Choudhury