Coffee in moderation can be a part of a perfectly healthy diet. However, many find themselves depending on that morning cup of coffee a little too much thanks to the delicious flavor and, most importantly, that caffeine boost.
However, caffeine is a drug. In fact, research shows that caffeine (usually in the form of coffee) is the United States’ most commonly used drug.
If you find yourself getting headaches without that morning (and sometimes afternoon) cup, there’s a good chance you’re actually addicted to coffee, which can lead to anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, teeth yellowing, nutritional problems, and more.
Not great, is it? That’s why we’ve compiled this list of healthy alternatives to coffee in the morning, and in general. Let’s get started.
Tea
Before you quit caffeine cold turkey, you might want to consider weaning off of it instead. This can reduce the withdrawal symptoms you’ll feel and boost your chances at success.
As you wean yourself off caffeine, try switching to various types of tea. Caffeinated tea usually has a lower amount of caffeine compared to coffee, which will give you a little kick you need without going overboard.
If you want to go all-in with your health, we highly recommend mushroom tea. Mushroom and adaptogenic tea (aka tea packed with amazingly healthy compounds called adaptogens) provide amazing nutrients, antioxidants, and benefits without relying on caffeine. You’ll feel focused, energetic, and healthy without caffeine.
Matcha green tea is another healthy option. Matcha is packed with antioxidants and has been linked to lowered cholesterol, better digestion, relaxation, reduced stress, and more.
Kombucha
The tea section leads perfectly into “kombucha” because, well, kombucha is a type of tea-based drink, too!
Specifically, kombucha is a drink made from fermented tea, yeast, and sugar. This creates a drink loaded with natural probiotics to promote digestion. Because it’s made with either black or green tea, it does contain some caffeine, but nowhere near the amount of caffeine found in coffee.
Kombucha made from green tea is especially healthy thanks to all of the benefits of green tea that we mentioned in the matcha section. Evidence also shows that kombucha can kill harmful bacteria, is filled with powerful immune-boosting antioxidants, and can even reduce your risk of heart disease.
Coconut Water
Ready to make the jump into a caffeine-less existence? Try replacing that morning cup of coffee with coconut water.
Coconut water is the liquid found inside young green coconuts. This drink is packed with nutrients, antioxidants, electrolytes, and minerals that many people don’t get enough of in their everyday diet.
Perhaps the most beneficial properties of coconut water are the electrolytes, which promotes hydration and proper cellular balance. This can help you during workouts, after exercise, and is extremely helpful for those cutting back on sugar. It’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium.
Celery Juice
Celery juice is definitely one of the trendiest options on this list with it being virtually non-existent until the last couple of years. However, it recently exploded in popularity thanks to the various benefits people experience with it.
One of the most lauded benefits of celery juice is how it can aid in digestion. Celery juice can help balance the acid in your stomach, which makes digestion easier and more efficient. Celery juice also has been linked to:
Lower cholesterol
Lower blood pressure
Improved liver function
Increased antioxidants and immunity
Lower inflammation
Celery juice is also chock full of vitamins and nutrients like vitamin B6, folate, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K. These can help you feel healthier and boost your energy as well, which makes it the perfect replacement for coffee in the morning.
Golden Milk
Let’s end with a little bit of an odd-ball, shall we? Golden milk sounds a bit strange, but it’s actually one of the most delicious and nutritious options on this list.
Golden milk is a concoction of turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and ginger in warm milk or milk substitutes. Many also add vanilla, honey, or agave to make it a bit sweeter.
Turmeric is the star of the show with this beverage option, providing you with powerful compounds called “circumins” that are powerful antioxidant and antiinflammatories. The black pepper helps your body absorb the circumin from the turmeric, and the honey and vanilla are there to provide a little bit of sweetness to start your day.
This beverage is a lot like a latte, so you’ll still get the feeling of a warm and delicious beverage like you would with a cup of coffee. It’s a lot like chai tea as well, also mimicking another beloved caffeinated beverage without the unhealthy effects.