4 Healthy Coffee Alternatives for a Natural Energy Boost
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Let's be honest. We all love that morning cup. Whether it's hot coffee or cold brew, it's the sip that helps us greet our day. But in some circumstances, it could be our enemy.
For many people (and definitely for me), coffee is an essential part of our daily routine. It’s the most guaranteed way to wake up.
However, too much is never a good thing.
As we learned in the last post, when we over-indulge in coffee we lose sleep, have jitters, and our hearts beat out of our chests. It does not feel good to have coffee sweats in the middle of a meeting, trust me. 😅
But don’t worry. You don’t have to give up caffeine cold turkey. But maybe finding an alternative can help you take that much-needed break from your regular cup of jo.
Here are my favorite coffee alternatives for when coffee is doing too much for me. These alternatives provide natural energy and a host of bonus health benefits!
Matcha Powder
Matcha powder is just finely-ground matcha green tea. You can drink it hot or cold and it’s especially good with your favorite vanilla almond or oat milk.
This mean-green cup of (honestly surprising) yumminess has the perfect amount of caffeine to help you drink 2 cups a day instead of 5.
With about 28mg of caffeine per 8 ounces, matcha contains less caffeine than a similar-sized cup of coffee and is natural!
Matcha is packed with antioxidants and amino acids that promote relaxation, focus, and alertness.
One study found that matcha provides a sustained energy boost that can last up to six hours, without the jittery crash that often accompanies caffeine consumption.
It has also been found to increase brain power and reduce stress levels.
Give it a try!
Yerba Mate
It's another natural source of caffeine so your buzz lasts a little longer than coffee. It does contain a bit more caffeine than matcha, however.
Chris Kresser says, “Yerba mate contains a respectable dose of caffeine, coming in at 85 mg per cup, so it is not a low-caffeine alternative to coffee”
Like matcha, yerba mate is also full of antioxidants and all that good stuff. It lasts longer than coffee without the crash and it may even improve your mood!
Check it out!
Green Tea
Another antioxidant-rich alternative that's known for its health benefits. Like matcha (a type of green tea), green tea has less caffeine but still provides energy and focus.
Green tea has some amazing health benefits. It has been shown to help with weight loss, improve brain function, and help reduce the risks of chronic diseases like chronic diabetes and cancer.
It’s available in many forms and flavors and is a very versatile drink. Perfect if you’re trying to lean off the lattes!
Here is my fav:
Golden Milk
Now for something completely caffeine free! (If you’re bold like that 😅)
Golden milk is a blend of turmeric, ginger, black pepper, and other spices mixed with your favorite milk or milk alternative.
Now, hear me out! This one’s a little different for sure. But check out the health benefits.
Turmeric, the main ingredient, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved brain power and reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease.
It can even reduce pain!
Each individual ingredient has its own health benefits making for a comforting, creamy, latte that does more than it seems.
Dress it up with honey or cinnamon for something on the sweeter side.
Or try this pre-made mix!
There are several caffeine alternatives that offer numerous health benefits and can serve as a perfect substitute for coffee. Here are a few of my favorites.
Each provides unique health benefits and can help you lay off the coffee when you need to.
What are your go-to coffee alternatives?
Note: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle. The author of this blog post is not a healthcare professional and does not claim to be one. The information provided is based on the author's personal experience and research and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
