While many of us seek ways to boost our energy levels, it often comes at a cost. Although popular, coffee can lead to numerous side effects. Whether it’s jitteriness, anxiety, or headache-filled withdrawal, caffeine is the culprit.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
If you’re looking for healthy alternatives that mimic the effects of coffee, there are plenty. Let’s cover five drinks and the science behind them that makes them so great.
1. Matcha Green Tea
You’re probably familiar with green tea, but matcha green tea is special. This powdered form comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, and is made from shade-grown leaves (normal green tea isn’t).
This gives matcha green tea a higher antioxidant and chlorophyll content, providing many benefits as a result. Just be cautioned, that matcha green tea does contain caffeine like coffee. However, the difference here is that the tea also contains something called L-theanine, which helps calm the body and mind.
The result is a calm lift in mood and energy, without all those unwanted side effects. If you want the concentration and focus you get from coffee without the crash, consider matcha.
2. Beet Juice
Known for being highly nutritious, beet juice is particularly rich in nitrates. Nitrates help your body make nitric oxide, which helps to dilate your blood vessels. Because of this, beet juice is great for increasing blood flow, which in turn, increases oxygen uptake.
This is one reason that beet juice is used by many endurance athletes. It also has plenty of other vitamins and minerals, making it great for overall health. If you want to boost your cardiovascular health, increase cognitive functioning, and lower your blood pressure, definitely consider beet juice.
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3. Coconut Water
Beloved in many tropical countries for its hydration ability, coconut water is often considered a natural sports drink. It is high in electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which are ideal for exercising in the heat.
It also has natural sugars, which can provide you a nice lift without the jitters of caffeine. Whether you’re looking to stay hydrated or recover from a long night out, coconut water confers numerous benefits.
Just be sure you’re getting a natural – preferably organic – form of the drink. Many companies have capitalized on coconut water’s popularity, but load up their beverages with sugars and additives. While this may improve the taste, it can defeat the purpose of drinking it in the first place!
4. Kombucha
Kombucha has become more trendy in recent years and for good reason. Fermented with probiotics and organic acids, this drink is known for improving your gut bacteria. However, it also boasts many benefits for overall health.
The amount of caffeine in kombucha is relatively low, and because its probiotics can help with nutrient absorption, it’s a great complement to other drinks and meals. Not to mention, a healthy gut is closely related to improved mental health.
The drink’s B vitamins also help you boost your metabolism which is good for sustained energy over time. For an improved brain-gut axis (critical to well-being) consider consuming kombucha regularly.
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5. Ginseng Tea
Ginseng is what’s known as an adaptogen. In other words, it helps your body adapt to the many natural and unnatural stressors we face every day. This is especially important when you consider how often we’re exposed to toxins, contaminants, and other artificial additives that simply aren’t good for us.
Fortunately, ginseng tea helps balance these out. The root of the plant is rich in what are called ginsenosides, which have been shown to boost energy levels. Although further studies are needed, the research so far indicates that ginseng can help offset fatigue, increase physical activity, and enhance cognitive capabilities.
Ginseng is even good for your immune system, making this lovely little medicinal herb a truly full-spectrum game-changer.
So, give it a shot. Whether you have ginseng, kombucha, coconut water, beet juice, or matcha green tea, you have plenty of options. While it can be difficult to get off coffee – especially if you’re dependent on caffeine – it doesn’t have to feel impossible.
Take your time, and slowly wean off day by day. If you notice any serious withdrawal side effects, such as intense sweating or heart palpitations, don’t hesitate to contact a doctor. As always, take your time, listen to your body, and stay consistent.
Before you know it, you’ll be kicking the coffee and enjoying a world of delicious beverages!
