Best Alternatives to Coffee – Top 10 Healthy Suggestions

Best Alternatives to Coffee

Coffee is a popular morning beverage that many people rely on to kick-start their day. However, not everyone is a fan of coffee. There are several reasons why people may choose not to drink coffee.

One common reason is the high caffeine content of coffee. A typical serving of coffee contains about 95 mg of caffeine, which can lead to nervousness, restlessness, and anxiety in some people. These side effects, commonly referred to as “the jitters,” can make it difficult for some individuals to concentrate or feel at ease.

Another reason why some people avoid coffee is that it can cause digestive problems and headaches. The acidity of coffee can irritate the stomach lining and trigger acid reflux, bloating, and nausea in some individuals. Additionally, caffeine withdrawal can cause headaches in those who regularly consume coffee and suddenly stop.

Lastly, some people simply don’t enjoy the taste of coffee or have grown tired of drinking it every morning. Coffee can be bitter and harsh, and some individuals may prefer sweeter or milder flavors.

Overall, while coffee is a popular choice for many, it’s not for everyone. Individuals who experience negative side effects or don’t enjoy the taste of coffee can explore other morning beverage options to find something that works better for them.

Top 10 Best Alternatives to Coffee

Here is the list of the top 10 best alternatives to coffee:

S.No.	Alternative to Coffee
1	Hot cacao
2	Black tea
3	Green tea
4	Chicory coffee
5	Yerba mate tea
6	Kombucha
7	Golden milk
8	Nut and seed milk
9	Apple cider vinegar
10	Lemon water

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1. Hot cacao

Brewed cacao is a unique and delicious alternative to traditional hot beverages. With low caffeine content and the presence of theobromine, a mild stimulant, it offers a gentle boost to the central nervous system without the jitters associated with coffee or tea. 

According to licensed dietitian and nutritionist, Monica Reinagel, brewed cacao is a low-caffeine drink that offers the decadent flavors of dark chocolate without the sugar , fat, or calories.

Native Central Americans have been enjoying this delicious beverage since 1,500 BC. Unlike tea or coffee, a cup of brewed cacao can be completely satisfying on its own, with or without a splash of milk. So why not try a new morning beverage? 

So next time you’re looking for a satisfying and unique hot drink, consider giving brewed cacao a try.

2. Black tea

According to the FDA, black tea has around half the caffeine content of an 8-ounce cup of coffee , making it a great alternative for coffee lovers who want to reduce their caffeine intake but still experience the benefits.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the caffeine level in coffee and tea can vary based on several factors such as processing and brewing time.

That being said, a combination of caffeine and L-theanine found in tea produces a dose-dependent alert, yet relaxed state, making tea an excellent choice for those looking for a milder energy boost.

Registered dietitian, Marie Spano, further adds that drinking three or more cups of black tea daily has been linked to a lower risk of heart attack and stroke, and preliminary research suggests that tea may also help prevent certain types of cancers in some individuals.

So, swap your morning coffee for black tea and enjoy the benefits of this healthier beverage choice.

3. Green tea

According to the FDA, green tea is a healthy alternative to coffee in the morning, containing roughly half the amount of caffeine found in coffee . The caffeine in green tea can improve mental acuity and increase metabolism, as Dr. Anthony Kouri from the University of Toledo Medical Center explains.

Multiple studies have also linked green tea consumption with a lower risk of bladder, breast, lung, stomach, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers, as well as reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Matcha, a type of green tea, is even more nutrient-dense than standard green tea because the entire matcha leaf is consumed, not just the tea water as noted by registered dietitian McKel Hill.

Matcha’s subtle caffeine content can help with focus due to theanine, which increases serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and glycine levels in the brain. So, why not try swapping your morning coffee for green tea or matcha for a healthier caffeine boost?

4. Chicory coffee

Chicory, a member of the dandelion family, is a versatile plant that has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries. The leaves of the chicory plant are often used in salads, while the roots are roasted, ground, and brewed to make chicory coffee.

This caffeine-free beverage has a slightly woody and nutty flavor, similar to coffee, making it a popular alternative for those who want to reduce their caffeine intake. According to Rachael Link, a registered dietitian based in New York City, chicory coffee has numerous health benefits.

It is high in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body, and has prebiotic properties that can promote healthy digestion.

The history of chicory coffee is also fascinating. It is believed to have originated in France during a coffee shortage in the 1800s, where people started mixing chicory roots into their coffee to stretch their supply.

Later, during the Civil War in the United States, chicory coffee gained popularity in New Orleans when Union naval blockades disrupted coffee imports. This led locals to turn to chicory coffee as a substitute, and it has since become a beloved part of the city’s culinary culture.

Chicory coffee is a unique and delicious alternative to traditional coffee, with a rich history and numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a caffeine-free option or just want to try something new, chicory coffee is definitely worth a sip.

5. Yerba mate tea

Yerba mate tea is a popular drink similar to coffee or tea that can have an impact on the color of acrylic resins or gourds used for drinking, depending on how it’s processed or used. Some research has also suggested that consuming yerba mate tea may reduce the risk of certain types of cancers, and drinking it can be a healthier caffeine alternative for those looking to switch from coffee.

Yerba mate tea is traditionally served in a gourd with a bombilla and can be brewed using tea bags, making it a versatile beverage option.

This is a herbal tea similar to coffee or tea that is known to enhance mental focus and energy levels without the jittery feeling often associated with coffee, according to a Healthline article reviewed by Dr. Debra Rose, a health psychologist and nurse.

Although yerba mate is considered to have nutrients that can have anti-inflammatory and stimulant effects, the consumption of large amounts of yerba mate over long periods may increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as cancer of the mouth, throat, and lungs.

This risk is further increased when yerba mate is consumed at very hot temperatures (149 F or higher).

However, it’s unlikely to pose a risk for occasional healthy adult drinkers. Yerba mate is traditionally consumed in a gourd with a bombilla and is a versatile beverage option available in tea bags.

6. Kombucha

As Willow Jarosh, a registered dietician-nutritionist, and health expert for Health-Ade Kombucha drink brand, mentioned in a Bustle article, Kombucha is an energy-boosting drink that contains L-theanine working along with caffeine to give a more even energy without jitters. Kombucha uses tea as its fermentation medium, making it an excellent choice for those who want a mild and gentle caffeine boost.

Because kombucha contains less caffeine per cup than plain tea, it is a great option. Additionally, it provides probiotic bacteria and a wake-you-up fizziness that makes it a great alternative to coffee or tea.

7. Golden milk

Golden milk is a traditional Indian beverage made with several spices, including ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper. The mixture provides a comforting yet invigorating concoction that’s sure to awaken your senses in the morning, and cardamom, vanilla, and honey can also be added to the mix for added flavor.

According to Dr. Kouri, the spices in golden milk, particularly turmeric, have anti-inflammatory properties due to the chemical curcumin.

Research suggests that consuming 500 mg of curcumin is as effective as taking 50 mg of arthritis medication for reducing inflammation.  The drink is made with a blend of aromatic spices, including ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper, which are simmered in milk to create a creamy and comforting drink.

Ginger, another key ingredient in the drink, has been shown to improve digestion, reduce nausea, and alleviate pain and inflammation. Cinnamon, too, has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

8. Nut and seed milk

According to Indu Arora, a yoga and Ayurveda medicine therapist, this milk drink made from almonds, pumpkin and poppy seeds, cardamom, and fresh ginger is an ideal beverage to start your day. The drink contains magnesium, iron, calcium, protein, and fiber, providing a nutrient boost while keeping your blood sugar levels balanced , reducing inflammation, and supporting your nervous system.

If you’re looking for a nutrient-dense and flavorful way to start your day, look no further than this delicious milk drink recommended by Indu Arora, a yoga and Ayurveda medicine therapist.

Made from a blend of almonds, pumpkin and poppy seeds, cardamom, and fresh ginger, this milk drink is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can provide a variety of health benefits. Almonds, for example, are a rich source of magnesium, which is essential for healthy nerve and muscle function, as well as calcium and iron, which are important for strong bones and healthy blood.

9. Apple Cider Vinegar

According to Makayla Meixner, a registered dietician based in Colorado, some studies suggest that consuming apple cider vinegar (ACV), which is made by fermenting crushed apples using yeast and bacteria , may help balance blood sugar levels. For instance, one study found that when people with insulin resistance drank 20 grams (0.5 tablespoons) of ACV before a meal, their rise in blood sugar levels was reduced by 64 percent.

However, this effect was not observed in people with type 2 diabetes, Meixner noted in a Healthline article.

To prepare a morning drink using ACV, mix one or two tablespoons of raw or unfiltered apple cider vinegar with a cup of cold water, and sweeten it with one or two tablespoons of honey or another sweetener. The tangy taste of the drink can also help to wake you up in the morning.

However, Meixner cautions against drinking undiluted ACV, as it contains 4–6 percent of acetic acid which may burn your mouth and throat, and can erode tooth enamel if used regularly.

Therefore, swishing water before and after drinking ACV is recommended to reduce potential side effects.

10. Lemon water

According to internal medicine specialist Roxanne B. Sukol, drinking lemon water is an excellent way to start your day, as most people do not drink enough water. Squeezing half a lemon into a glass of water provides a quick and potent vitamin C boost , making it an ideal drink for a refreshing energy kick in the morning.

With just six calories, this virtually calorie-free drink can help wake you up in the morning without the need for caffeine.

Lemon water also provides more than a sixth of your daily vitamin C, which is essential to protect your cells from damage and repair injuries, Sukol explained to the Cleveland Clinic, an academic medical center in Ohio. This virtually calorie-free drink contains just six calories, which can help wake you up in the morning without the need for caffeine.

Healthy Alternatives to Coffee

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee, there are many options available that can still provide a boost of energy and mental alertness without the negative side effects. Here are some options to consider:

Matcha: Matcha is a type of green tea that is ground into a fine powder and whisked with hot water. It contains more caffeine than regular green tea, but still less than coffee. Matcha is also high in antioxidants and can provide a calming effect on the mind and body.

Herbal Tea: Herbal teas, such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger, are naturally caffeine-free and can provide a calming effect on the body. They can also help with digestion and provide other health benefits.

Coconut Water: Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich beverage that can help rehydrate the body and provide a gentle energy boost. It is also rich in potassium, magnesium, and other minerals that can help support healthy muscle and nerve function.

Fresh Juice: Drinking fresh juice made from fruits and vegetables can provide a burst of energy and a range of health benefits. Juicing can help boost immunity, support healthy digestion, and provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals.

Smoothies: Smoothies made with fruits, vegetables, and other healthy ingredients can provide a filling and energizing breakfast option. They can help support healthy digestion, boost immunity, and provide a range of vitamins and minerals.

Protein Shake: Protein shakes made with protein powder and other healthy ingredients can provide a filling and energizing breakfast option. They can help support healthy muscle growth and repair, boost immunity, and provide a range of vitamins and minerals.

Sparkling Water: Sparkling water is a refreshing and hydrating beverage that can provide a gentle energy boost. It can help improve digestion and provide a range of minerals and electrolytes.

Overall, there are many healthy alternatives to coffee that can provide a range of health benefits and a gentle energy boost. Experiment with different options to find the one that works best for you and your lifestyle.

Alternative to Caffeine

Caffeine is a popular stimulant found in coffee, tea, energy drinks, and other beverages. While caffeine can provide a quick energy boost and improve mental alertness, some individuals may experience negative side effects, such as nervousness, restlessness, anxiety, and insomnia. Additionally, regular consumption of caffeine can lead to caffeine dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to caffeine that can still provide a boost of energy and mental clarity without the negative side effects. These alternatives include:

• Exercise: Exercise is a natural energy booster that can improve blood flow, reduce stress, and release endorphins, which can improve mood and mental alertness.
• Napping: A short nap can help refresh the mind and body and provide a natural energy boost.
• Hydration: Dehydration can cause fatigue and brain fog, so staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water or other hydrating beverages can help improve energy levels.
• Healthy Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can provide the body with the nutrients it needs to support healthy energy levels. Foods rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can help provide sustained energy throughout the day.
• Herbal Supplements: Certain herbal supplements, such as ginseng, rhodiola, and ashwagandha, can help improve energy levels and mental alertness without the negative side effects of caffeine.
• Yoga and Meditation: Yoga and meditation can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and boost energy levels naturally.

Overall, there are many alternatives to caffeine that can provide a natural energy boost and improve mental alertness without the negative side effects. Experimenting with different options can help individuals find the one that works best for their unique needs and lifestyle.

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Source: pagasa.edu.vn