Start Sipping On These NATURAL ALTERNATIVES TO CAFFEINE
Do you rely on a warm, steamy brew, or coffee with a strong aroma that whiffs by gently as you take your first sip? You're not on your own! But do you also find yourself suffering from that mid-afternoon slump?
For centuries, we’ve been enchanted by this drug for its miracle effects on our bodies. Since the early discovery of caffeine’s stimulant effect, studies have since linked the drug to reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
But that caffeine also has a dark side. Drinking numerous cups in a day can leave you feeling jittery during the day and restless at night. Of course, caffeine tolerance varies by person, but we have covered below several revitalising beverages to try as an alternative every now and again.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented, lightly effervescent, sweetened black or green tea drink commonly consumed for its supposed health benefits. Sometimes the beverage is called kombucha tea to distinguish it from the culture of bacteria and yeast.
It's a great low caffeine alternative to coffee or tea, so you can enjoy a little boost without the dreaded crash! It has also been suggested that consuming kombucha on an empty stomach may also help to balance your gut bacteria to aid digestion throughout the day
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting crushed apples using yeast and bacteria. This process produces a compound called acetic acid, which may have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, according to some studies.
A basic apple cider vinegar beverage combines 1–2 tablespoons of raw or unfiltered apple cider vinegar, 1 cup (237 ml) of cold water and optionally 1–2 tablespoons of honey or another preferred sweetener.
Chaga-ccino
Chaga-ccino is a healthy, coffee alternative. A blend of magic mushroom with a delicious mocha flavour. Cram packed with vitamin D, magnesium and beta-glucan to support and stimulate your immune system, with a soothing and boosting effect. You can create your own with the right ingredients.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos or red tea is a caffeine-free beverage that originated in South Africa. Unlike coffee and other teas, rooibos is low in tannin antioxidants, which can be beneficial but also interfere with the absorption of iron. Despite a low tannin content, rooibos provides a substantial amount of other antioxidants. One study found rooibos could potentially reduce cancer risk.
Rooibos has a longer steep time than most teas and over-steeping does not result in a bitter taste. Instead, rooibos has a slightly sweet, fruity flavour. Shop Rooibos Tea here, they have a variety of flavours.
B12
B12 vitamins play an essential role in energy production. This is no secret: take one look at the ‘energy drinks’ on the shelves at your local supermarket and you’ll often find B12 vitamins as the star of the show. If you set aside the sugars, sweeteners and artificial flavourings, they're actually on to something.
The best way to ensure you are getting an adequate supply of B vitamins is by eating a varied and balanced diet. Dark green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and potatoes are good sources of multiple B vitamins. For a little extra support, you can also try our high quality B12 supplement.
Specifically, pay careful attention to vitamin B12 if you’re vegetarian or vegan, you’re at a high risk of deficiency in this particular nutrient.
Maca
Maca is a herb that grows at high altitudes in the mineral rich soils of the Andes Mountains. It’s a fairly new discovery in the Western world, but has been traditionally consumed for over 10,000 years by Incan warriors as a way to boost energy, endurance and alertness.
In a 2009 study published in the American Journal of Ethnopharmacology, a group of male cyclists were split into two sub groups – one of which was given maca, the other a placebo. The cyclists who consumed the maca increased their time faster than the ones who got the placebo.
A separate clinical review of maca also noted it’s ability to improve energy levels and mood in a range of subjects, both male and female. Take a teaspoon of maca powder in a smoothie before a workout, lookout for the subtle yet long lasting energy boost.
Mint
Mint acts as a natural, refreshing alternative to coffee, as research suggests the smell and flavour of it can enhance memory and boost alertness and attentiveness. Enjoy Mint tea either by a good quality tea bag, or through hot water and bashed fresh mint leaves.
Kick the benefits of mint up a notch by mixing up this cucumber mint smoothie recipe that is energising, hydrating, nourishing and cooling.