Here are a few eyebrow-raising stats: In the US alone, 54% of people over the age of 18 take coffee every day. This translates into north of 100 million people ,each of whom takes 3.1 cups of coffee a day on average.
The astronomical figures above may lead you to believe that a lot of people in the US and around the world are happily chugging away at the caffeinated drink. However, nothing could be further from the truth. The reality is that there are millions out there trying to find alternatives to coffee. The reasons for this desire could range from personal preferences or health issues(for example, the drink tends to worsen the physical state of those suffering from type 2 diabetes) to the need to escape the addictions of caffeine.
Top 10 Healthy Alternatives to Coffee
The good news is that there is no shortage of healthy coffee replacement drinks out there. Let’s take a look at some:
1. Matcha green tea
For those looking to cut back on the caffeine component in their drinks, then this powdered green tea contains only between 2-4% caffeine levels. The green leaves it comes from are dried for a short period of time to retain their vitality and maintain the levels of chlorophyll inside them.
2. Dandelion tea
As a herb, dandelion has been in mainstream use for decades now, coming in as a home remedy for stomach upsets and inflammations. Tea from the herb may not be the most appetizing around but its potency is something to fall back on. A 2004 study by experts at the University of British Columbia in Canada found that dandelion teas can be used as laxatives.
3. Chia seeds
A drink made from chia seeds guarantees you plenty of energy as it will come loaded with the much sought-after omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, protein(20%), calcium as well as a generous serving of antioxidants.
4. Siberian ginseng tea
If you have access to some supplies of the ginseng root, then you are halfway across the road to making a tangy sort of tea. Throw in some honey to neutralize the sharp taste if you can. Ginseng tea boosts your concentration and gives you the energy to attack the day ahead with abandon.
5. Peppermint beverage
This minty concoction is a favorite of those who want to give themselves a fresh burst of breath at any time during the day. Its cool feel on the mouth and stomach makes the drink a popular revitalizer for those looking to give coffee a wide berth.
6. Chamomile tea
A 2005 study by the American Chemical Society points to the fact that Chamomile is a great drink for those looking to unwind and relax. There also exists evidence that points to it being a great way to induce sleep, which is why most people prefer the brew at bedtime.
7. Turmeric tea
Curcumin, one of the most active ingredients of turmeric, has been subjected to tons of studies in the past. It has been found to boost brain power and enhance memory among large sections of users. Studies also indicate that people who live in areas where turmeric is consumed in high quantities enjoy long life spans.
8. Organic green tea
While this does have some caffeine in it, the amounts are not as nearly as astronomical as with regular coffee. It is a great choice for those looking to quite caffeinated drinks but wants to do it in a structured way. It also boasts compounds that boost immunity and make it possible to fight back against free-floating radicals.
9. Yerba mate
For over a century now, this drink has essentially replaced coffee, especially in South American countries where it is native to. It contains about half the levels of caffeine in regular coffee and has a swath of benefits related to retention, memory, and general mojo.
10. Hibiscus tea
Iron is one of the most important compounds to the human body and its role is to feed oxygen to the brain and give you the power to navigate your way around those days you find yourself in any sort of lull. As a substitute for coffee, hibiscus tea comes with generous helpings of Iron. It also comes packed with Thiamin, which converts the food in your system into bubbling energy.
