The controversy over caffeine has been long running, with no signs of the buzz over it slowing down anytime soon.
The list of health benefits of coffee is so long we'd have to sit down over a cup of Joe just to list them all. Yet, the health effects of coffee and caffeine also have many ill consequences, from adrenal fatigue to jitters.
Many studies confirm the blessings of caffeine, from a Japanese study about it increasing memory, to a lab experiment with hairless rats showing it may prevent skin cancer, to brain research indicating caffeine may stave off Alzheimer’s. But do the health risks of caffeine outweigh the benefits? We all know that caffeine can also raise blood pressure, keep you awake (isn’t that the whole point?), and irritate your intestines.
If you’re thinking about making the switch to a coffee alternative, here are some considerations.
Coffee contains antioxidants.
• Caffeic acid is found in coffee, but it is chemically unrelated to caffeine and does not stimulate the body. Instead, it is a member of the phenol chemical group, and phenols are known antioxidants and anticarcinogenics.
• Coffee also contains chlorogenic acid, another antioxidant that studies suggest may prevent type 2 diabetes mellitus. Chlorogenic acid can reduce glucose in the liver and help control blood sugar. The coffee plant itself uses chlorogenic acid to protect itself from viruses, bacteria and fungus.
• Coffee also provides modest amounts of Vitamin B3, or niacin, which forms during the bean roasting process.
One way to get these benefits of caffeine without the diwonsides is to drink decaffeinated coffee.
But, decaf coffee isn’t the only healthy energy drink option on the menu when you want to rev up your day.
Here are some more delicious alternatives:
Chicory
Tastes strong and earthy with the same slightly bitter bite as coffee. Chicory is roasted dandelion root. The chicory benefits include being a powerful antioxidant and liver cleanser. Drink it straight or mix with decaf coffee and chicory for an especially bold taste.
Korean Barley Tea
Roasted barley tea, called Bori Cha, is very popular in Asia. Roasted barley tea nenefits include being rich in Vitamin B6, magnesium and iron. Its aroma is earthy. Pair it with rose hips, lemon or cinnamon.
Brown Rice Tea
Enjoy the mild, nutty flavor of this tea, also called Genmaicha, and know that you are also getting some Vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium with every sip.
Kombucha
The Chinese called this tangy and sour fermented tea a longevity drink for its magical powers to make a person live forever. The health benefits of drinking
kombucha include it being loaded with enzymes, amino acids and polyphenols, kombucha is a great digestive, antioxidant and immunity booster that gives a feeling of balance and vitality.
Mushroom Cappuccino
A blend of dried
chaga mushroom coffee and steamed milk. Chaga is loaded with B vitamins, flavonoids, phenols, minerals and enzymes. It also has concentrations of pantothenic acid which is vital to adrenal gland function. Pair it with berries such as goji, pomegranate or blueberry for a powerful antioxidant punch.
Yerba Mate
From the South American rainforest, Yerba Mate is a rejuvenating and powerful pick-me-up, famous for giving you a burst of energy without the jitters. Its smooth, naturally sweet grassy flavor is a perfect coffee replacement and regular tea. Yerba Mate tea benefits include it being loaded with B vitamins, Vitamin C and minerals including manganese, potassium and zinc. Drink it iced or hot.
With these 6 alternatives to coffee, you’ll be starting your day energized without the jitters - plus you’ll be getting a ton of health benefits, too!