A Blaq What? Latte?

Photo by Nathan Dumlao

The Blaq (Black) latte is one of the newer trendy drinks starting to see a resurgence lately in the coffee house.  Marketed as a healthy drink and stopping short of a superfood latte, the blaq (black) latte is usually made with activated charcoal that has anti-inflammatory qualities and is good for gastrointestinal issues. 

Activated charcoal is helpful when treating poison or drug overdoses because the activated charcoal binds to the drugs or chemicals in your stomach, thus removing them.  This is where the thought comes to mind that an activated charcoal latte is great for hangovers or detoxing.  Yet, one thing to be cautious about is that out with the bad, can be out with the good as activated charcoal doesn't discriminate and can remove important probiotics and even medications you are currently taking. 

​Instead, opt for the alternative blaq (black) sesame seed latte.  More people are used to sesame seeds, as they are added to sushi, ice cream, or boba tea.  Sesame seeds are healthy, and a blaq (black) sesame seed latte can easily be sweetened with honey, agave, or a mild banana simple syrup.  Using toasted sesame seeds adds a little more complex flavor.