Do you love coffee but can't sleep at night? Or perhaps it gives you jitters and palpitations? Then it's time to search for an alternative! From green and black tea to coconut water, there are plenty of options available. Choosing one comes down to your preferences. High in antioxidants, coffee is the most popular beverage worldwide. Its health benefits are backed up by studies. Caffeine, its primary compound, revs your metabolism, boosts brainpower, and increases energy levels. It also has beneficial effects on your mood, insulin response, body composition, and physical performance. Unfortunately, this healthful beverage isn't for everyone. Some people are sensitive to caffeine and may experience jitters, insomnia, headaches, and arrhythmia. About 10 percent of the world's population is
hyposensitive to coffee. This means they can consume it in large amounts without much effect at all. Regardless of which category you belong to, consider using natural coffee alternatives. The benefits might surprise you! Not sure what to choose? Swap your daily cup of joe for these energizing beverages:
Matcha Green Tea
Just like black and green tea, this delicious beverage comes from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It's higher in antioxidants, chlorophyll, and amino acids, offering a myriad of health benefits. Rich in catechins, matcha green tea neutralizes free radicals and slows down aging. Its concentration of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is
137 higher than that in green tea. This antioxidant prevents cellular damage and inhibits tumor growth. It also aids in fat loss and boosts your metabolism. Just like coffee, this flavorful tea promotes healthy brain function and improves mental focus. It also boosts reaction time, attention, memory, and cognition. Beware that matcha is higher in caffeine than coffee. You only a need a small amount to reap its benefits. If you're hyposensitive to caffeine, this beverage might do the trick.
Yerba Mate
This drink comes from the rainforest holly tree. It provides the same buzz that coffee gives but without the jitters. Plus, it boasts over
196 active compounds, including antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients. Green tea, by comparison, contains just 144 active compounds. Yerba mate not only energizes your mind and body but it may also protect against cancer and chronic diseases. For this reason, it's often referred to as
the tea of the gods. Studies have shown that it induces cancer cell death, boosts immune function, and lowers cholesterol levels. Due to its adaptogenic properties, it improves your body's resilience to stress. Since it contains caffeine, it may cause agitation and restlessness in those who are sensitive to this compound. If you’ve never tried it before, start with a small dose to see how your body reacts.
Black Tea
This beverage is called the
champagne of teas for its unique flavor and outstanding health benefits. It's higher in caffeine than coffee, but it also contains more nutrients. Research shows that black tea may
lower the risk of heart disease, inhibit tumor growth, and prevent diabetes. The antioxidants and phytonutrients in this drink promote cellular repair and reduce stress hormone levels. Drinking one or two cups a day will protect you from kidney stones, memory loss, obesity, and stroke.
Teeccino
More and more cafes and restaurants are serving a nutrient-rich beverage called
Teeccino. Basically, it's an herbal coffee packed with inulin and antioxidants. Inulin, a soluble fiber, improves digestion and appetite control. It also supports fat loss and lowers HDL cholesterol. Unlike coffee, Teeccino is ideal for those with IBS, IBD, and other GI problems. Also, it doesn't cause jitters or increase blood pressure. This beverage is caffeine-free; its energy-boosting effects come from nutrients like flavonoids, potassium, and magnesium. This flavorful drink is also an excellent source of prebiotics. Inulin, one of its key compounds, feeds the healthy gut bacteria and keeps your digestive system running smoothly.
Coconut Water
Along with tea, coconut water is one of the healthiest beverages on earth. It naturally boosts your energy levels, restores your electrolyte balance, and keeps you hydrated. That's why it's a favorite choice for the world's best athletes. Plus, it has no caffeine, so you can enjoy anytime - even before bedtime. This beverage comes from green, young coconuts. It's 94 percent water and has little fat. Its key nutrients include dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, manganese, vitamin C, protein, and magnesium. One cup delivers over 17 percent of the daily recommended intake of potassium and 10 percent of the recommended allowance of vitamin C. Many athletes use coconut water as a natural, healthier alternative to sports drinks. It's rich in enzymes and electrolytes, which helps prevent dehydration. Moreover, it supports cardiovascular health, regulates blood sugar levels, and lowers blood pressure.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is best known for its ability to improve digestion. It's marketed as a natural cure for nausea, stomach pain, inflammation, and flu. What many people don’t know is that it's also a powerful energy booster. This beverage revitalizes and relaxes your body while suppressing appetite. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it fights infections and improves immunity. Plus, it relieves heartburn, prevents stomach ulcers, and relieves muscle and joint pain. Since it's caffeine-free, you can enjoy it anytime, day or night.
Green Tea
Our list wouldn't be complete without green tea. Packed with flavonoids, catechins, and anti-inflammatory compounds, this centuries-old beverage can improve your health and boost your energy. Compared to coffee, it's lower in caffeine but has just enough to energize you instantly. Green tea can also help you torch stubborn fat and last longer in the gym. It's an excellent metabolism booster and can replace your pre-workout formula. In clinical trials, this beverage has been shown to increase metabolism by as much as
four percent and fat oxidation by 17 percent. L-theanine, one of its active compounds, increases dopamine levels in the brain and promotes relaxation. This amino acid also improves energy metabolism and mental function. As you see, coffee isn’t your only option. There are better alternatives to choose from, and each has unique benefits. You can also try kombutcha tea, licorice tea, rooibos tea, and wheatgrass juice. These beverages boast a high nutritional value and have various therapeutic properties.
