Are you trying to cut down on caffeine or kick your daily “Cup of Joe” habit? Fortunately, there are several natural energy-boosting alternatives to coffee. Too much caffeine consumption can cause a host of side effects including insomnia, restlessness, irritability, and nervousness. If you’re ready to give up coffee but don’t want to suffer the withdrawal symptoms, you can try these substitutes to keep that pep in your step.
Maca
Maca can help you feel more alert and focused without all the jitters of caffeine. This root native to Peru supports the endocrine system, which helps the body handle stress. Studies have shown that Maca not only helps with athletic endurance but also helps balance your hormones.
Maca has a nutty, earthy and faintly sweet taste similar to cinnamon. Try mixing Maca powder with steamed almond or coconut milk and add a sweetener such as maple syrup. You can even stir this superfood into your morning oats or smoothie.
Matcha Green Tea
Made by grinding dried green tea leaves, matcha has been used throughout history to improve focus, calm and energy during meditation routines. With one-third the caffeine of coffee, matcha is able to keep you alert yet tranquil, due to the presence of the natural relaxant L-theanine. If that weren’t enough, matcha is also full of antioxidants, amino acids, and phytonutrients to keep your body running at peak performance.
Make your co-workers green with envy with a nutritious latte by mixing matcha with your choice of steamed milk and sweetener (and be ready to share).
Rooibos Tea
Made from a shrub indigenous to South Africa, this caffeine-free tea is gaining popularity because of its high concentration of antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamin C. What makes Rooibos special is that it has immune-boosting properties and is low in tannins, a residue in tea that can cause interruptions to the digestive system. If your stomach is sensitive to black tea or coffee, Rooibos tea may be a great option for you.
It is common to prepare Rooibos in a similar way to black tea or even an iced tea version for those hot summer days.
Roasted Chicory & Dandelion Root
This caffeine-free herbal combination is the most similar in taste to coffee. Chicory root contains insulin, a prebiotic fiber known to relieve constipation and promote digestive health. Dandelion root is known to help improve kidney, liver function and decrease inflammation.
Brew roasted chicory and dandelion root the same way you would coffee and add cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices to achieve a full-bodied flavor of your choice.
Yerbe Mate
Loaded with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, Yerbe Mate is made from a tree native to the rainforest. It has been known to increase metabolism and boost weight loss. Yerbe Mate has a bitter and earthy taste without the acidity of coffee.
Yerbe Mate can be prepared in a French press, tea infuser, or espresso machine. Consumed hot or cold, this tea is very versatile.
Kombucha
This sweet carbonated beverage offers probiotics made from fermented tea cultures. It is great way to boost the efficiency of your digestive system, which can increase your energy level. Proponents suggest that Kombucha can be used to treat heartburn, assist the immune system, and detox the liver.
This drink is a perfect choice for breakfast or after meals to help digestive enzymes do their job. You can make your own Kombucha or pick some up at your local health food store such as Green & Tonic
If you need a nutritional energy boost try Green & Tonic’s Matcha Hemp Latte!
Matcha green tea is blended with coconut mylk, hemp hearts, maple syrup and cinnamon to make the perfect latte. A great alternative to coffee, this warm drink will make any day better!
By: Bailey Bate, CHC, a G&T Health Coach available for free consultation on Fridays in Cos Cob.
