For many people around the world, the day does not begin until they have gulped a brewing cup of coffee. Coffee is an integral part of the daily routine and a significant factor that helps in concentrating and focusing better. Whether it’s a shot of espresso or a hot cup of cappuccino, the caffeine flow is enjoyed by all. Nonetheless, some people choose not to drink coffee as it may cause jitters, a feeling of nervousness, and agitation, which makes it hard for them to concentrate and makes them feel unsettled.
There is another group of individuals who want to cut down on their daily caffeine intake due to various health reasons. If you’re someone who is looking for a coffee alternative, here are a few options you can try that will keep you up and running, without the sudden energy rush.
12 Best Coffee Alternatives
1. Green Coffee
Green coffee refers to the coffee made from the raw form of coffee beans, which have not been roasted. It has a milder taste as compared to regular coffee and a slightly herbal flavor. Several studies conducted in the US to analyze the effects of green coffee on a healthy body have shown that it helped a lot of people in losing weight. Besides that, it releases a chlorogenic acid which can help in reducing the ill effects of diabetes and heart problems. Moreover, green coffee is known to be having less caffeine content compared to regular coffee. Hence, for those who are trying to cut their caffeine intake, green coffee is a relatively safer option.
Also Read: Green Coffee Health Benefits
2. Chicory Root Coffee
Chicory is made from the roots of the chicory plant. It is a beverage popularly consumed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee. Its roots are roasted, ground, and brewed to form a drink similar to coffee. It has a woody flavor which is liked by a majority of coffee drinkers and also contains inulin which is a prebiotic fiber known to have great effects on weight loss. It is also rich in proteins, dietary fiber, manganese, vitamin B6, and many more vital nutrients.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar can be your go-to coffee alternative given its numerous health benefits. It gives you an energy boost, helps in weight loss, helps fight inflammation, and prevents diabetes. The only caution you need to take is that, if taken directly, it can damage your teeth due to its high acidity, so it’s always beneficial to accompany it with a spoon or two of water.
4. Green Tea
The quintessential regular coffee substitute, green tea serves as the perfect coffee replacement. Green Tea is definitely one of the most healthy beverages available, if not the healthiest. A hot cup of Green Tea contains antioxidants and disease fighters that protect the body and provide immunity from many health problems. Some of the benefits of Green Tea, among others, are, improves mental acuity, reduces the risk of type-2 diabetes and heart problems, and less likelihood of stomach, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers.
Also Read: How Much Green Tea to Consume in a Day
5. Matcha Tea
Matcha Tea is made from the fine green powder made available after grinding Match, a root plant. It has almost half the amount of caffeine compared to a regular cup of coffee, which serves as a good energy source and also detoxifies the body. It also elevates the mood, which is why people feel more relaxed after having a cup of matcha tea. On top of that, you get healthy and glowing skin.
6. Smoothies
Smoothies can serve as an excellent coffee option, delicious, nutritious, and a great combination of fruits and vegetables. They combine almost all of the required natural ingredients which are essential for the smooth functioning of the body. In addition to being a great amazing booster, they also provide your body with carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, and antioxidants.
7. Golden Milk (Haldi Milk)
Mostly drunk at night, Golden Milk is a traditional Indian beverage that can be a great substitute for regular coffee. The key ingredient of this non-caffeinated drink, turmeric is an excellent antioxidant with powerful anti-inflammatory properties that not only boosts your energy but also improves mental health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular ailments and cancer.
Also Read: Types of Coffee Beans
8. Tea (Chai)
A combination of black tea, milk, and a wide array of spices, Tea, is an excellent replacement for coffee. Having a comfortable smell and a robust flavor, not only boosts your energy but also lowers the risk of heart diseases and has powerful antioxidant properties.
9. Rooibos Tea
Originated in South Africa, Rooibos or Red Tea is a caffeine-free beverage that can be a great regular coffee alternative. Unlike other teas, Rooibos has a sweet, fruity flavor and contains high amounts of antioxidants.
10. Lemon Water
Unlike the caffeine-rich beverages, the effects of which fade away as the caffeine wears off, this non-caffeinated regular coffee alternative will keep you up and running throughout the day. Lemon water provides Vitamin C, which builds your immune system and protects the skin from sun damage.
Also Read: Honey Lemon Water Benefits
11. Yerba Mate Tea
A regular coffee substitute without ditching the caffeine, Yerba Mate Tea is a tea that comes from the South American regional tree Yerba Mate. Yerba Mate gives you longer-lasting energy as compared to regular coffee and is also a rich source of antioxidants.
12. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented black tea that contains probiotics, acetic acid, and antioxidants. It is highly nutritious and has numerous health benefits. It not only provides you with a more even source of energy but also provides probiotic bacteria.
Switching from coffee to another non-caffeine drink can be a steep task, but with these healthy alternatives to regular coffee, cutting down on coffee shouldn’t be so difficult. So, next time you have a craving for a hot cup of coffee, get your hands on one of these substitutes and try a shot of goodness.
