I personally drink way too much coffee (I’m sitting at a Starbucks with a latte as I’m writing this). Too much coffee usually results in dehydration; I experience really bad withdrawal symptoms and headaches if I don’t drink coffee every single day. Although coffee itself isn’t bad, it definitely doesn’t give you the hydration your body needs. Are you someone like me who can’t seem to live without coffee? If you’re also trying to cut down on coffee, try these alternative drinks that will hydrate you better and boost your energy!
5 Healthy Alternatives to Coffee
Red Ginseng
East Asian (China and Korea) cultures have used ginseng for several medicinal purposes. One of the most popular kinds of ginseng is red ginseng, which is harvested after 6 or more years. Many in Korea use and consume this root since it reduces oxidative stress and boosts your immune system. Moreover, red ginseng boosts energy levels and fights the 3 pm slump, which is exactly what most people try to do by consuming coffee. Next time, try a hot mug of red ginseng tea, or red ginseng extract instead.
Matcha
Matcha is made by steaming, drying, and grinding green tea leaves into fine powder. This process dates back to the ancient traditions of Japanese culture. It’s an alternative to the classic brewed green tea, but with more benefits. Your body receives a higher concentration source of antioxidants because the leaf itself is being consumed instead of it simply being infused in water. On top of that, not only does matcha contain caffeine (like coffee), but it also keeps you hydrated and maintains body fluid balance (unlike coffee).
Kombucha
Kombucha is fermented tea made with black tea, bacteria, yeast, and sugar. The origins of this tea are unknown. However, researchers suggest that kombucha comes from Manchuria, or Northwestern China, where it was popular. The fermentation process allows kombucha to contain probiotics and antioxidants, meaning this tea is great for your digestive and immune system. Because kombucha can be difficult to make at home, I would suggest purchasing bottled tea or tea bags in stores.
Chai
Chai tea is a delicious, rich beverage made with black tea, milk, and spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. This Indian drink also contains caffeine, but much less (only about a third) than coffee does, preventing caffeine overdose. Chai lattes are savory and flavored, leaving a smooth and silky taste in your mouth. Moreover, chai helps with digestion and soothes stomachaches. In contrast, coffee’s acidic content may give your stomach a stinging, burning pain.
Jasmine
Although jasmine tea was (and still is) incredibly popular in China centuries ago during the Ming Dynasty, it originates from Persia. Now, people love and drink jasmine tea worldwide. Jasmine tea, like green tea and black tea, naturally contains caffeine. It’s a healthier alternative to coffee since it contains relatively less caffeine than coffee, but will still keep you focused and alert throughout your day. Moreover, tea encourages higher levels of water intake compared to coffee, meaning you will also stay more hydrated.
2 Comments
Pete
How does Murshroom coffee mEasure up?
Georgia Pellegrini
It’s interesting! Definitely an acquired thing, but if you’re up for an adventure would love to hear what you think of it.