Wine
The drink of choice before coffee was wine. It has been consumed since antiquity, both by the ancient Greeks and Romans, and continues to be enjoyed by wine connoisseurs across the world. But why do people love drinking wine? Some say it’s the subtle aromas of the different grapes that provide a unique and enjoyable experience. Besides being a delicious beverage, wine is thought to have health benefits, like being packed with antioxidants.
Beer
Beer is also an ancient beverage that pre-dates coffee. The earliest evidence of it was discovered in Iran from over 5,000 years ago, and it quickly spread to many societies. The crafting of beer is complex, with brewers using malted grains, hops and yeast. Beer has long been enjoyed in social situations, and its popularity continues to grow today. It is believed to reduce bad cholesterol and it’s even thought to help reduce the signs of ageing.
Kvass
Kvass is a grain-based beverage that dates back over 6,000 years. It originated in the Eurasian steppe, a vast grassland region stretching from Eastern Europe to China, and continues to be consumed in European countries like Russia, Ukraine and Poland to this day. It’s made from fermented rye with various flavorings, like honey and fruit. Like beer, kvass is believed to have health benefits, like potentially improving digestion and reducing inflammation.
Tea
Tea has been around for thousands of years, as it has been enjoyed by Chinese culture since the 5th century BC. It is often seen as a soothing and calming beverage, and it is usually made by steeping leaves and other plant material in hot water. In addition to being enjoyed for its pleasant taste, tea is thought to have some positive health benefits, like reducing stress and possibly helping to strengthen the immune system.
Juices and Smoothies
Long before coffee, people drank a variety of juices and smoothies. Juices are made by pressing or crushing the natural liquid found in fruits and vegetables, while smoothies are made by blending fruits and other ingredients like nuts and seeds. These beverages can be a delicious refreshment as well as providing some essential vitamins and minerals.
Milk
Milk is a popular beverage, particularly among children. It is rich in calcium, which helps to aid the development of strong bones and teeth. Milk is a highly nutritious drink and is said to reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes.
Water
Finally, water is one of the oldest and most important beverages. Water is essential for life and, like the other drinks mentioned, it has positive health benefits. It is believed to help flush toxins out of the body and can even help to reduce the risk of headaches.
Herbal Teas and Tisanes
Herbs have been used for centuries for their medicinal and culinary properties. Herbal teas and tisanes are a popular drink and were used by ancient cultures to address various conditions. These teas can be a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the benefits of herbs.
Lemon Water
Adding lemon to water is believed to improve digestion, boost the immune system and provide other health benefits. It is a popular and refreshing beverage and many people enjoy it before or instead of coffee.
Cocoa and Hot Chocolate
Before coffee was introduced, hot chocolate, made from a mixture of cocoa, milk, spices and other ingredients, was a popular drink. It is said to have a calming effect and can give you an energy boost. Cocoa is also used to make a variety of food products, such as Easter eggs and hot chocolate.
Sake
Sake is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice and is a popular drink in Japan and other East Asian countries. It is said to have various health benefits, such as being rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Sake is usually served warm and it is thought to improve digestion and potentially boost the immune system.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar and a specific type of yeast. It is believed to aid in digestion and provide probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria found in the gut. Kombucha has a pleasant taste and is thought to benefit overall health.
Mezcal
Mezcal is an alcoholic beverage made from the distilled agave plant. It is often referred to as ‘liquid smoke’ due to its smoky taste. It is thought to be beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving digestion.
Herbal Infusions and Decoctions
Herbal infusions and decoctions are made from boiling herbs in water. They are believed to have multiple health benefits and often have a pleasant and relaxing taste. They have been consumed for centuries and are thought to improve overall health.
