Ah, coffee. The sweet aroma, the rich flavor. It’s often the first thing we reach for in the morning. For many of us, its the fuel to help us power through the day. But have you ever considered ditching coffee altogether?
I know… That thought is like something straight out of a horror film. How would we ever make it through our day-to-day without our magical, caffeinated coffee in hand? It turns out, ditching coffee doesn’t have to be a super scary endeavor. There are actually so many coffee alternatives that can give you the same satisfaction and keep you caffeinated!
Sure, the energy boost we can get from coffee can be absolutely phenomenal and a total life saver on those super busy, sleepy days. But while coffee can give us an energy boost, it can also cause feelings of anxiety and jitters. This is due to those high levels of caffeine in coffee. If you’re prone to anxiety, it definitely may be time to consider switching to a lower-caffeine coffee alternative. Not only will you feel more relaxed, but you’ll likely sleep better too.
Not to mention the brutal stains and bad breath that come from our favorite liquid delight. Coffee can do a number on our pearly whites and cause some rancid breath. It’s not the most attractive look, and by ditching coffee and opting for a healthier, less-potent beverage, you can avoid these negative effects.
While we live for our trips to Starbucks and Dutch Bros, let’s face it. Coffee isn’t cheap. If you’re indulging in your favorite coffee at your favorite shop every day, it can add up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars per year. By cutting back or eliminating coffee altogether, you can save some serious cash. Think of all the other things you could be spending that money on!
While there are a few health benefits to drinking coffee, such as reducing the risk of certain diseases, it can also have some negative effects on our health. It’s known to spike your heart rate, increase blood pressure, and increase blood sugar levels, according to Harvard’s School of Public Health.
Fortunately, there are numerous replacement options for that morning cup of joe. If you’re considering ditching coffee, don’t be afraid! Consider trying these five coffee alternatives instead.
5) Fresh Juice
It might be #5, but don’t underestimate this fabulous coffee alternative. Fresh juice is a great way to get a quick energy boost while also nourishing your body with numerous various vitamins and minerals. A blend of fruits and vegetables can provide a great variety of nutrients, depending on what you choose. Just avoid adding too much sweetener, like sugar or honey, to detract from the health reasons behind this beverage.
4) Yerba Mate
This one may have you scratching your head. Yerba mate is a South American drink that’s made from the dried leaves of a type of holly plant. It has a natural source of caffeine (for those that need that extra energy boost in the morning), as well as other nutrients and antioxidants that make it a great choice when you need a coffee alternative in your life.
3) Golden Milk
Golden milk is a traditional Indian beverage that’s made from turmeric and other spices, along with milk (or a non-dairy alternative). It’s often used by many for its anti-inflammatory properties, but it can also be a great energy booster when you need it, according to Health Line. The combination of spices is phenomenal with a comforting-style flavor (just like that coffee drink we all know and love), and the milk adds creaminess that can be very satisfying.
2) Kombucha
Prepare to have your life changed forever, if you’ve never tried kombucha. This fermented tea has become a favorite of health enthusiasts in recent years. It’s made by adding a specific type of bacteria and yeast to black or green tea, which creates a drink that’s packed with healthy probiotics and enzymes. It also has a slightly fizzy quality that can be refreshing and energizing. Plus… It’s super easy to find! Just head to your local grocery store. Most of them have kombucha on hand!
1) Matcha Green Tea
And coming in at #1… Matcha! Matcha green tea has been growing in popularity lately and for good reason. It’s packed with antioxidants and nutrients that can greatly benefit your health, and it provides a natural source of caffeine that gives you a steady energy boost without the crash that comes with coffee, according to Forbes. Plus, it has a nice, earthy flavor that can be enjoyed hot or cold. It’s totally delicious, and you should DEFINITELY consider trying it as a coffee alternative.
