There are still those die-hard coffee lovers who are not looking for a change, but now there are many other morning drink options for those who may be interested in trying something different! More and more people are setting aside their cup of joe for newer healthier coffee alternatives, some with less caffeine. If you’re looking to expand your morning horizons with something new and exciting, then a healthy coffee alternative might be just the thing for you!
Here are some of our favorites:
Tea Has Added Benefits, In Addition to Less Caffeine
Black tea or green tea can be a great alternative to coffee. Although tea does contain caffeine, it does not have as much as coffee, and will still give you the boost you need to get going! The caffeine in green tea helps to improve mental acuity as well as increase metabolism. There are other health benefits associated with green tea including that it contains Catechins, a natural antioxidant. Chai tea, another delicious alternative is also known as Masala Chai. It is a blend of aromatic spices and herbs combined with black tea and milk. Its flavor combines delicious full bodied spices infused with milk to add to the creamy indulgence.
Probiotics and Vitamin B are Found in Kombucha
Kombucha may well be an acquired taste for some, but many find this fermented green tea drink to be delicious and, as a bonus, it is filled with probiotics and vitamins, including Vitamin B which can help to boost energy.
Golden Milk
Golden milk’s popularity has increased recently due to the health benefits hype around Turmeric. The drink gets its name from the way the turmeric turns the milk a golden yellow color, as turmeric tends to do with anything. Caffeine free golden milk serves up a mix of spices that warm you up and comfort you. The ingredients can vary depending on taste, but generally include: a blend of turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, honey, maple syrup, and milk alternative. You can find recipes online or even pre-made mixes. Because of the turmeric, golden milk has anti-inflammatory properties which can benefit you in so many ways.
Lemon Water
You can squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water for a quick but potent vitamin C boost to start your day. This virtually calorie-free drink provides a refreshing, caffeine-free energy boost you need to get going in the morning.
Smoothies
Who doesn’t love a smoothie in the morning? You add a kick of protein, some fruit, milk alternative, healthy fat, and leafy greens all blended up into one easy meal! The possibilities are endless when it comes to smoothies and there are recipes everywhere, but to be a true coffee swap, I believe a smoothie needs to have kick (like matcha…matcha is a type of green tea that is more nutrient-dense than standard green tea), some protein, and a healthy dose of fruits and/or vegetables. Get ready for a real energy boost!
Healthy reasons to decrease caffeine intake:
Less anxiety – Coffee has caffeine which can sometimes be great but can also come with the side effect of nervousness, anxiety, and even panic attacks. Decreasing the amount of coffee we consume can promote a less “fight or flight” reaction within us, calming our nervous system.
Better gut health – Coffee can irritate the gut, creating IBS-like symptoms. Many people rely on coffee to go to the bathroom but too much of it can create digestive upset.
Balancing hormones (especially in women) – Caffeine can disrupt estrogen levels which can increase the negative effects of menopause, endometriosis, or PMS.
Best Milk Alternatives for Coffee:
If you are still enjoying your coffee but need more ideas for how to make it healthy and delicious, try these out! Dairy-free and enjoyable, see which ones are your favorites.
Almond Milk – If you’re looking for a milk alternative, then you can’t go wrong with almond milk!
Cashew Milk – This one mixes well with coffee. It can, however, be a bit more watery than other milk.
Coconut Milk – This milk is creamy and incorporates well into your coffee. It has the coconut flavor, so it’s great if that appeals to you.
Oat Milk – A barista favorite, this milk froths well and creates a creamier drink.
Rice Milk – This mixes well into coffee but can also be a bit watery. It does provide a neutral base for adding syrups or sugar that nut coffees do not.
Soy Milk – A classic alternative milk, this one can cut the tanginess of coffee but beware…it can curdle once it hits the hot liquid. Warm this one up before adding it to your coffee.
