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A hot cup of coffee may be just what you need to start your morning, but are you one of those people who need to cut back or cut out coffee altogether? Luckily, there are many alternatives out there that may be even better!
These 10 simple drinks and edibles will give you the energy you want without the awful side effects. They’re less acidic, better for digestive health, and you may even notice that your mind is clearer and more focused than it is on coffee.
1. Lime, Ginger, Warm Water
Your first drink of the day should be a glass of water. For good, healthy energy that lasts, add lime and ginger to a cup of warm water. This delicious beverage is full of antioxidants that aid your body in handling free radicals and it’s bursting with flavor.
2. Apples
An apple a day not only keeps the doctor away but did you know it can give you a 4-hour energy boost too? This delicious fruit is packed with manganese, copper, Vitamins A, B, C, and K, plus fiber, which improves gut health. In a hurry to get out the door? Apples are the perfect grab-and-go snack.
3. Yerba Mate
You may have seen this in the energy drink section at your local grocery store. This tea contains a fairly high amount of caffeine but is much less acidic than coffee. Yerba Mate has become popular for a great energy buzz that lasts without the crash afterward. The herb is jam-packed with antioxidants and acts as an anti-inflammatory.
4. Matcha Green Tea
Matcha green tea can boost brain function, improve heart health, and is believed to have cancer-fighting antioxidants. It’s an alkaline superfood which means it is less acidic and harmful for your stomach. Matcha Green Tea leaves you with a clear mind and more energy to combat the day. What’s not to love?
5. Functional Mushroom Drinks and Products
Functional Mushroom drinks have become popular for their many benefits and are now one of the top alternatives to coffee. Mushrooms such as Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, and Reishi are super nutritious. They are great for focus, energy, brain health, and longevity. Here are some clean brands to check out: Ryze Superfoods, Mud\Wtr, Rasa, and Lifecykel.
6. Cacao/Cacao nibs
Cacao is a great source of energy and perfect for chocolate lovers. Cacao nibs can be eaten directly out of the bag as a snack or added as a topping to smoothie bowls. The powder can be added to smoothies or protein shakes and goes great with mushroom-based drinks. Eating or drinking cacao can regulate blood pressure, improve mood, reduce inflammation, and improve brain health.
7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Organic, raw ACV is well known for providing energy as well as stamina. It’s also more alkaline than we may realize. Consuming ACV can help neutralize the acidic pH level in our bodies. If you have a sensitive stomach, consider diluting a tablespoon or two with a glass of warm water. ACV kills off harmful bacteria and promotes gut health. An added bonus? It can also improve your skin!
8. Vitamin B12
An extra energy boost may be as simple as adding a vitamin to your diet! Taking a B12 vitamin daily aids the stomach in digesting food and converting it into energy. Most people have a deficiency and may not realize it; this may be why you feel sluggish in the morning or crash in the middle of the day.
9. Rhodiola Root
The roots of the Rhodiola herb are considered adaptogens, meaning they help your body adapt to stress when consumed. There are more than 140 active ingredients in the roots; you’ll benefit from way more than just energy! Rhodiola improves exercise performance, cognitive function, and mood regulation. It is even recommended by many dieticians as part of a diabetic lifestyle plan.
10. Water
This one may seem obvious, but a lot of people don’t drink the recommended 8 glasses of water per day. Your lingering fatigue could actually mean that you’re dehydrated. Dehydration can drain your energy, alter your mood, slow your metabolism down, and make you feel weak. Drinking more water is one of the easiest ways to get an energy boost and might be just what you were missing!
Coffee is great but if you’re suffering side effects from your daily cup (or 5!), there are healthier ways to get your pick-me-up. For more energy without the jitters and some serious benefits to go with them, try some of these delicious coffee alternatives.