My love for coffee once was one that I enjoyed first thing in the morning. There was something about the warmth of it. All I needed was one a day so, I would admit I wasn't I die hard fan of coffee. Fast forward to my years living in Italy where drinking espresso and having cappuccinos were introduced. The cafes, standing while the barista made a delicious cup cappuccino and a fresh delicate croissant. Nothing was better. Then came the afternoon espressos which was a must have according to my peers. I was hooked but started noticing things I hadn't before. Heart racing, headaches, gut pain and fatigue, I just didn't feel good. I had to do something, so when I returned home I decided to cut the coffee and try some alternatives. These were some alternatives that helped me. Although some had a little caffeine I didn't feel the way I felt with coffee. A coffee a day or one here and there won't harm you but when you start to get symptoms it may be time to cut some of that caffeine out of your daily routine. Each one of us is different so the amount of caffeine that we can tolerate will differ. Perhaps substituting some of your coffee cravings for one of these alternatives will help you feel a new sense of empowerment, clear headed and full of energy without the burn out hours later.
Matcha
Definitely one of my favourites if I am in the mood for a little caffeine with powerful health benefits. This is a wonderful alternative to coffee. Matcha is a Japanese green powder that's formed when you grind up young tea leaves. Ths tea does contain caffeine along with L-theanine, an amino acid that relaxes the mind without drowsiness. The caffeine it contains is more than green tea but it doesn't leave you jittery like coffee. The antioxidants it contains may lower blood pressure, reduce your risk of heart disease, and even boost your metabolism. Make sure that you buy a good quality Matcha, ceremonial will be pricier as it is made with younger leaves.
Add powdered matcha to a medium bowl. Add two ounces boiling water and whisk until foamy later appears. Add more hot water or steamed milk and whisk again until foamy. Add sweetener if need.
Yerba Maté
Yerba Mate Tea is a South American tea that comes from the leaves and twigs of the Yerba Mate plant. This does contain levels of caffein equivalent to a cup of coffee but it is smoother, will give longer lasting energy without feeling jittery. It contains theobromine which is also found in chocolate, which is a naturally occurring stimulant. Yerba Mate is filled with antioxidants that may help lower blood pressure, aid in cognitive function, may improve exercise performance and, may prevent heart disease. It is also known to help boost immunity. Drink in moderation as it still contains much caffeine even if it contains many beneficial nutrients.
Try Maté Factor or Guayaki which are reputable organic brands. When purchasing buy from a reliable source.
Natural Hot Cacao
I am speaking of cacao vs. cocoa. The difference you may ask? Cacao is made from fermented beans, unroasted, and processed at lower temperatures. Cocoa on the other hand are fermented and roasted at higher temperatures. Therefore cacao will have higher nutrient value and greater antioxidants. We don't often think to start our day with a cup of hot cacao as we think of it as something to help relax and sleep. However, it can also serve as a great coffee alternative for a morning beverage. It is packed with potent antioxidants, has a richness and flavour profile similar to coffee, and has some mood boosting benefits. Cacao also contains magnesium which can help the muscles in the body relax, which can help keep you regular. (make you poop)
Try combining 1 cup almond milk, 1 Tablespoon raw cacao powder, 1 Tablespoon maple syrup, 1/4 tsp vanilla, dash of cinnamon, and pinch of sea salt in saucepan. Serve warm.
Kombucha
Kombucha is another potential coffee replacement for those trying to cut down. Kombucha is a fermented tea that gives you the benefits of L-theanin that work with the caffeine to give a more even energy without all the jitters of coffee. During the fermentation process the caffeine and sugar are used living it to very little of the both. It is said to promote gut health, and provides increase antioxidants. In addition, it delivers probiotic bacteria while giving you a fizzy sweet yet tart experience.
Buy Kombucha in local grocery stores and if interested in learning how to make your own I would love to teach you! I am an email away sabrina@nurishwell.com
Green Tea
Green tea makes a great alternative to drinking coffee providing numerous health benefits. Multiple studies have shown that by drinking green tea less likely to get some cancers which could be from the high antioxidants. In addition, research indicates that green tea helps reduce type 2 diabetes and heart disease. There is some caffeine in green tea which is said to provide mental support and aid with metabolism.
Purchase reliable organic brands of green tea as they are all not produced equally.
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