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What’s a Healthy Substitute For Coffee?
Coffee’s aromatic fragrance awakens our senses in the morning and provides a jolt that gets us moving through our day, but some individuals have decided to limit their caffeine consumption for various reasons – perhaps it gives them jitters, raises blood pressure or triggers acid reflux or digestive problems; or perhaps they want to limit exposure to chemicals found in many products available today.
For those who can’t give up their daily cup of java, there are beverages that serve well as coffee alternatives. It is essential to find one that fulfills both flavor and energy requirements while meeting health goals.
Many coffee alternatives provide health advantages beyond caffeine boost. Green tea contains antioxidants which promote cardiovascular health while adaptogen blends may aid stress management.
Herbal tea is an increasingly popular alternative to coffee, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals in every sip. Furthermore, many varieties contain natural caffeine for an energy boost without creating anxiety or jitters.
Trying something more savory? Why not try Chai Tea, which consists of black tea mixed with spices like cinnamon, ginger and cardamom? Although chai contains caffeine like other forms of coffee beverages, its typical beverage tends to have lower sugar levels compared to most coffee beverages.
Yerba mate and kombucha are healthy alternatives to coffee that offer similar caffeine kicks, with smooth earthy flavors similar to coffee’s smoothness. Both beverages may also help improve digestion.
Chicory coffee offers another healthy coffee alternative, featuring the same taste but without caffeine and with low caloric intake and high inulin content that promotes digestive health.
Lemon water is a delectable, refreshing and naturally sweet morning beverage that can hydrate, stimulate the liver to process toxins, promote gut microbiome health and provide antioxidant protection from cell damage.
Other popular options include rooibos tea, also known as red bush or African red tea, which features an aromatic, full-bodied taste reminiscent of coffee but without the caffeine buzz. Perfect for anytime of day!
Add protein-rich ingredients such as chia seeds, nuts or hemp powder for an energizing beverage and to promote mental alertness and focus. Studies have revealed that protein stimulates orexin receptors in your brain to increase mental alertness.
Some coffee alternatives feature creamers for added sweetness and richness in every sip. If this is something that appeals to you, opt for unsweetened soy or oat milk instead of full-fat dairy creamers with more saturated fat and added sugars. Or add simple kitchen ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg or cacao powder for additional health-promoting nutrients in every sip!