8 Healthier Alternatives to Coffee

By Staff Writer | May 01, 2015 | 07:06 AM EDT

If you're conscious about over consuming coffee, soda, and energy drinks to get through the day, you can try these healthier coffee alternatives instead.

1.) Matcha Green Tea

Matcha is a specially processed green tea powder that has higher benefits than those of regular brewed green tea. This is especially visible in the green powder that matcha is made of. According to Matcha Source, matcha is "an antioxdiant powerhouse" where a cup of the delicious green beverage is equivalent to the amount of antioxidants found in 10 cups of brewed green tea.

Compared to the caffeine found in coffee, matcha is alkalizing and calming which gives it a longer-lasting energy boost minus the jitters and nervousness. Other surprising health benefits of matcha includes detoxification because of its high chlorophyll content, strengthening of the immune system, and keeping the cardiovascular system healthy.

2.) Hot Maca

Maca is also known as Peruvian ginseng and is valued for its numerous health benefits. According to Mind Body Green, maca is traditionally enjoyed warm and is a great coffee alternative because it provides energy boost through the hardy root plants's adaptogenic compounds that can help enhance energy, balance hormones, and reduce stress.

3.) Hot Apple Cider

According to Caffeine Informer, apples do not have caffeine but it wakes the body up. Its high fructose content is the reason the body feels energized. However, the warm cider form is a healthier way to get energy boost. Plus, it yields many health benefits not found in coffee such as lowered risks for asthma, diabetes, some cancers, and cardiovascular diseases, according to Live Strong.

4.) Coconut Water

Coconut water comes from the juice of young green coconuts and is considered to be a natural alternative to sports energy drink, according to Oregon Live. It is low in calories and contains electrolytes, sodium, and potassium which are minerals needed for rehydration. Coconut water is great for mid-day energy refuels and is healthier, too!

5.) Yerba Mate

Yerba is an indigenous Paraguay plant and is a popular refreshment. According to The New York Times, yerba contains Vitamins A, E, and C, chlorophyll, pantothenic acid, and choline. It has natural caffeine but does not result in heavy crash associated with drinking coffee. There are a variety of ways in which yerba mate is enjoyed: hot, cold, added with honey, and more.

6.) Lemon Water

If you want a natural but clean energy boost in the morning, lemon water may be for you. According to Natural News, lemon water provides electrolytes and antioxidants as well as citric acid, Vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

7.) Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is invigorating, refreshing, and a suitable coffee alternative. According to Flatulence Cures, peppermint tea has digestive benefits that can help with gas and bloating problems. Drinking this can naturally relieve the symptoms.

8.) Raw Cacao

Cacao contains high levels of resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that protects the nervous system, according to Free People. Raw cacao latte can satisfy your coffee cravings while being a guilt-free warming rich drink.

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