Morning coffee is something that is not negotiable, some of us are not even people until we have our big cup of hot coffee ready to start the day. A latte, a mocha, a double shot… Something that wakes you up and does not make you think that you hate life just for being a salaried worker. However, despite being a sacred ritual for most of the population… Not everyone is a big fan of coffee because of the effects it causes. Anxiety, insomnia… and the stomach acidity it produces. And yes, our stomach is not made of iron and sometimes suffers from the pain of this type of beverage that is so acidic, so many are choosing to look for alternatives that replace it and bring other health benefits… Do you want to know which drinks we are talking about?
Matcha
You love it or you hate it, matcha is a powdered green tea loaded with antioxidants. Yes, it has caffeine, but it combines it with L-theanine, which means more stable energy and concentration without the spikes of nervousness from coffee. Preparing it is as simple as mixing the powder with hot water or milk. That said, it is not for everyone, some users say it tastes like grass and yet others mix it with almond milk and say it is delicious.
Chai
Chai, or masala chai, mixes black tea with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and clove, a blend that is delicious, by the way. Less caffeine than coffee, but an intense flavor and digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the spices strengthen the immune system. A cup of chai is all you need to stop having heart palpitations because of that damn coffee.
Mushroom coffee
What? Yes, it sounds strange, but it works, it is coffee beans mixed with mushrooms like reishi, chaga or lion’s mane. Some versions have caffeine, others do not. The important thing is that these mushrooms are adaptogens, it is a strange word, but it means that they help manage stress and boost concentration, we love it, especially during exam time!
Yerba mate
Mate, we love mate!!! In Argentina, mate time is almost an institution and brings friends and family together around this particular drink. It contains caffeine, but it combines it with other compounds that make it smoother even though it is a very strong herbal infusion, it is not for everyone either, but how cool is Messi going to training camps with mate?
Chicory coffee
If you like the taste of coffee but not the caffeine, chicory is the answer. It is a roasted root that has a very similar flavor profile and, at the same time, provides inulin, a prebiotic fiber good for gut health. That said, it can have a slight laxative effect, do not drink it on an important day!
Mint tea
Light, caffeine-free and with digestive properties. It relieves indigestion, reduces bloating and also has an unmistakable refreshing effect. It does not give energy like coffee, but it does give well-being and stronger defenses thanks to its antimicrobial properties. Have you tried Moroccan tea?
Golden milk
The famous “golden milk,” which, although it sounds a bit strange, combines turmeric, milk (or plant-based drink) and spices like cinnamon or ginger. Caffeine-free, but with curcumin, a powerful natural anti-inflammatory. It comforts, helps the joints and the digestive system. That said, do not stain your hands or you will look like Homer Simpson…
Rooibos
Rooibos is an African tea without caffeine and rich in antioxidants like quercetin. It is digestive, smooth and less astringent than other teas because it has low tannin content. You can drink it alone or with milk and honey, and it works both hot and cold and it is very, very tasty!
Giving up coffee does not mean giving up the pleasure of a good drink in the mornings, which one are you going to try?