Looking to switch from good old morning coffee to something a little different or even healthier? You’re in luck.
Several options are available that can help reduce your caffeine intake while still giving you the energy you need to get through the day. But first, I’ve got a few reasons why you should consider switching from coffee.
They may surprise you.
Kicking The Coffee Habit
Coffee is one of those things we automatically associate with early mornings. It’s seen as the jolt of energy you need to kickstart your day. And while it’s fast, easy, and delicious, it should be consumed in moderation.
This delightful, bitter bean can cause some adverse side effects like heightened anxiety, trouble sleeping, digestive issues, or even sudden energy crashes at the worst possible times.
So why not switch things up a few mornings a week?
There are some equally tasty and energy-boosting options out there…
1. Matcha Tea
Matcha has been trending all over social media, and they’ve got everything matcha-flavored, from ice cream to wedding cakes.
But let’s take it back a bit to 12th-century Japan. Matcha tea was introduced in Japan by returning Buddhist monks and became an integral part of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.
Matcha differs from other teas because it uses the entire leaf, ground into a fine powder to maximize nutritional content. Making yourself a cup of matcha tea in the morning takes some light whisking with hot water and can be calming and grounding.
The Benefits Of Matcha Are Amazing
Matcha tea gets high praise for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some modern studies suggest that consuming matcha may improve memory, attention, and reaction times.
Unlike instant coffee, matcha provides a steadier release of energy throughout the day so you can skip the afternoon slump.
And, if you’re concerned about the time it would take you to whisk up your matcha in the mornings, there are convenient alternatives like matcha sticks and matcha lattes.
2. Yerba Mate
This traditional South American beverage is popular among indigenous people in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile.
One cup of yerba mate contains around 80 mg of caffeine, which may sound like a lot but is less than what you’d find in a standard cup of coffee.
Additionally, yerba mate’s alkaloid composition gives its drinkers a more balanced and sustained energy. This drink is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and essential minerals, making it a good choice for your heart and health.
3. Green Tea
This Chinese-originated tea contains healthy compounds like catechin epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These catechins help fight oxidative stress, lower cholesterol, and have anti-inflammatory effects.
The insurmountable benefits of green tea have made it one of the most studied beverages on the planet.
If you’re caffeine-conscious, you’ll be happy to know that a single cup of green tea contains between 25 and 45mg, significantly less than a cup of coffee.
Still Not Convinced About Green Tea?
If the antioxidants aren’t enough to get you to start your day with a cup of green tea, there are still a few more benefits in store.
Firstly, this is an excellent option for people who are prone to anxiety as green tea (due to its low caffeine content) provides a more calming and focused energy.
Green tea is widely accessible and can be found in most grocery stores. It’s quick and easy to make, and if you’re still getting used to the taste, you can try it in different flavours or with some ice and a slice of lemon.
4. Chicory Coffee
If you desperately need that coffee flavor to start your morning, then chicory coffee might be just the thing for you. Made from roasted chicory roots, this alternative gives off a nutty, bitter flavor that resembles coffee.
It has zero caffeine and, even better, almost zero calories. And the flavor isn’t even the best part. Chicory root is a wonderful source of insulin and acts as a prebiotic, which is amazing for gut health.
If you’re starting to move away from coffee, this doppelganger can help make the transition easier.
5. Golden Milk
Golden milk, or “haldi doodh,” is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic medicine known for its healing and digestive powers.
This is a milk-based drink infused with several spices, including turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Variations of the drink include cardamom, vanilla, and honey.
Golden milk is caffeine-free and specifically designed to maximize turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and therapeutic benefits. This is an excellent alternative to your morning cup of coffee if you’re not lactose-intolerant.
6. Black Tea
Black tea, like green tea, also contains L-theanin, which provides a calming effect for drinkers despite its caffeine content. A cup of black tea has approximately half the caffeine of a cup of coffee.
Research has linked the consumption of black tea to several health benefits, including a reduced risk of neurodivergent diseases and hypertension.
Drinking a cup of black tea every morning will still give you the caffeine boost you need, and it has potential long-term health benefits.
7. Bone Broth Latte
This is one of the most adventurous alternatives on the list. While it might not be a traditional beverage to start the day with, wellness enthusiasts swear by its health benefits, so it’s worth a shot.
Bone broth is a high-protein soup-like concoction filled with vital nutrients like collagen, glycine, and glutamine.
This combination of nutrients makes for a savoury, filling, healthy, and energy-boosting way to start your day.
Conclusion
We all love a good old cup of morning coffee, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying something new.
These alternatives are packed with energy, nourishment, and rich cultural experiences.
Whether you want to stay it safe with some chicory coffee or go all out and start your day with a cup of bone broth, at least you’re trying something new.
One of these may just become your new favorite way to start your morning routine.