Recently, there's been a lot of information regarding coffee as a healthy drink. It gives you that much-needed energy jolt, it's high in antioxidants, and makes one awesome summer refresher when cold brewed. On top of this, it seems that regular coffee drinkers have a lower risk of diabetes and certain cancers.
But coffee has its drawbacks, which sends many people looking for an alternative. Coffee can cause overwhelming anxiousness, interrupted sleep, and upset stomach. Plus, sipping on a sugary coffee drink daily loads you up with an excess of calories. If you're interested in a great coffee alternative without the adverse effects, the following is a list of six, expert-backed, healthy drinks.
Matcha green tea
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Matcha tea is a cup of regular green tea, the difference is that it uses actual tea leaves which are turned into a powder and added to hot water. The leaves raise the caffeine level equal to that of a cup of coffee. But instead of giving an instant energy surge and a sudden subsequent drop once the caffeine wears off, matcha gives a more calming feeling due to the amino acid L-theanine. Plus, this powder is also high in antioxidants, such as polyphenols.
Wheatgrass juice
Wheatgrass is a high source of antioxidants vitamins A, C, and E, as well as calcium, magnesium, iron, and amino acids. The combination of these natural ingredients can give you a jolt of energy similar to caffeine. Preliminary studies also suggest that wheatgrass can provide benefits for ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, diabetes, and oxidative stress.
Ginseng tea
One of the reasons why so many students drink coffee is because it enables us to focus better. Developing evidence suggests that Panax ginseng, although not in tea form, can improve reaction times, mental math, and mental performance in abstract thinking. It also reduces your risk of getting a cold. With its naturally bitter flavor, it's a perfect coffee alternative.
Pomegranate juice
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Most of us heard of the heart-related health benefits pomegranate juice provides. Its rich, red color is a hint of the concentrate of antioxidants it has, which are great at powering your energy level. Pomegranate juice is already famous for its antioxidant potency, while its polyphenols are being studied for cognition, muscle strength recovery, and more. For a great afternoon source of fuel, add it to some sparkling water.
Yerba mate tea
This popular tea beverage from South America is made from the native mate plant. Yerba mate contains caffeine just like coffee. On top of that, some evidence suggests it may help control blood sugar for people with diabetes, lower LDL cholesterol, and help with weight loss.
Water
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One of the oldest methods of fighting energy-draining dehydration is a cool glass of water. When you are dehydrated, water boosts your cognitive and gastrointestinal functions together with physical performance. So next time you're in need of a coffee boost, try drinking a few glasses of water to feel more energized.
