Healthy Alternatives
Most mornings start with a quick rush to get out the door, but there’s no reason you can’t take the time to think about what you should be drinking to start off your day. Instead of reaching for the same cup of coffee each morning, consider some healthier options. There are a variety of drinks that can kick start your morning and provide you with the burst of energy you need to get going.
Green Smoothie: Blending together fresh greens with your favorite fruits, a healthy green smoothie can be the perfect drink to kickstart your morning in a nutritious way. Green smoothies are filled with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, as well as fiber to help keep you regular. Adding a scoop of protein powder or nut butter can also help to keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Fresh Fruit Juice: For a delicious and hydrating morning drink, try some freshly pressed juice. Many store-bought juices can be filled with added sugars, so making your own juices or opting for the natural ones in stores can help you get your sweet fix without all the unwanted additives. If you need a caffeine boost, adding some yerba mate or green tea to your freshly pressed juice can do the trick.
Herbal Tea: For those who still crave for the warm, comforting morning drink but seek for an alternative to coffee, herbal teas such as chamomile, rooibos or mint can be a great substitute. Not only are these teas rich in antioxidants and calming teas, they can be delicious and comforting while giving you the pick-me-up that coffee can provide.
Kombucha: For a refreshing morning drink that also enhances your gut health, reach for some kombucha. This tea-based drink is full of probiotics, enzymes and amino acids, as well as a range of beneficial bacteria. Drinking kombucha on an empty stomach in the morning can help to keep your gut bacteria healthy. It’s important to note that kombucha contains some caffeine, so if you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, then this may not be it.
Nutrient-Packed Alternatives
There are plenty of options for those looking for something a little bit more nutrient-dense to kick start their morning. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to coffee, here are some of the best drinks to power you through your day.
Golden Milk: This creamy and delicious drink is made from a combination of turmeric, coconut milk and spices. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce the effects of chronic inflammation in the body. It’s also a rich source of antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells from damage and keep you feeling more energized throughout the day.
Coconut Water: Coconut water is a great alternative to both coffee and sugary juices. Not only is it naturally sweet and delicious, but it’s also rich in electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium, which can help to keep you hydrated and give you an energy boost. Coconut water also contains some natural sugars, so if you need a quick pick-me-up in the morning, this is a great option.
Green Juice: If you’re looking for an alternative to coffee that’s packed with nutrients, try a green juice. This drink is made from freshly pressed greens such as kale, spinach, cucumber and celery and can be a great way to get in your daily servings of greens without having to spend time in the kitchen prepping them. Plus, the natural sweetness of these fruits and veggies can provide you with a mild boost of energy that will last throughout the day.
Bone Broth: Bone broth is a great option for those looking for a nutrient-rich alternative to coffee. Full of amino acids, minerals and collagen, this drink can help to reduce inflammation and give you an energy boost. Try adding some fresh herbs and spices to add flavor.
Benefits of Choosing a Healthy Morning Drink
Replacing your regular cup of coffee with some healthy options can provide a variety of benefits for your health in the long run. Most noticeably, you’ll be able to reduce your caffeine intake, which can help to reduce any adverse side-effects such as jitteriness, headaches and restlessness. Furthermore, opting for healthier options can provide you with more natural energy sources, as well as various vitamins and minerals that can help to keep you energized and running smoothly throughout the day.
Making healthier morning choices can also help to improve your overall health. Many of the alternatives to coffee discussed are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and beneficial bacteria that can help to enhance your body’s natural functions. Additionally, swapping out your coffee for healthier options can help to improve your cognitive function, as well as reduce your risk of certain chronic diseases.
Finally, choosing to switch out regular coffee for healthier alternatives can also be a great way to start your day on a positive note. Having a healthy drink in the morning can help to set the tone for the rest of your day and put you in the right frame of mind to take on anything the world throws your way.
Tips for Making the Switch
Switching from coffee to healthier drinks can be challenging, especially if you’re used to having coffee every morning. To make the transition a bit easier, there are some tips that can help to make it a smoother process.
Start Small: If you’re not quite ready to give up coffee completely, start by reducing your intake gradually. For example, try having coffee only a few days a week, or just once a day if you’re used to having multiple cups.
Explore Different Alternatives: Coffee isn’t the only energy-boosting drink, so take the time to explore all the different options out there. Make it a habit to try a new drink every week to find one that works best for you.
Choose Quality Ingredients: When making your healthier drinks at home, it’s important to choose quality ingredients. Opt for organic, non-processed and fresh ingredients when possible to get the most health benefits out of your drink.
Hydrate throughout the Day: Another good way to make the switch is to focus on drinking water during the day. By staying hydrated, you’ll be able to stay energized and focused without relying too heavily on caffeinated beverages.
Flavorful and Refreshing Morning Drinks
Having healthy alternatives to coffee doesn’t mean sacrificing on taste. There are plenty of flavorful and delicious drinks out there that can satisfy your taste buds while leaving you feeling energized and refreshed. Here are some great recipes to try out in the morning:
Minty Green Smoothie: Blend together a handful of spinach, half an avocado, a banana and some fresh mint leaves with your choice of nut milk or coconut yogurt. Add a spoonful of honey for a touch of sweet and enjoy!
Refreshing Fruit Juice: Juice together some pineapple, apple and lime for a tart and refreshing drink. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra zing!
Chocolatey Chai Latte: To make a warm and delicious morning drink, combine your favorite chai tea mix with some nut milk, cocoa powder and a glass of hot water. Sweeten with a little bit of honey or maple syrup, and enjoy it warm!
Tropical Turmeric Tonic: Make your own turmeric tonic by combining some coconut milk, fresh turmeric and pineapple with honey and fresh ginger in a blender. Serve it with a few slices of pineapple for a touch of sweetness and you’re good to go!
Supplements and Herbal Extracts
For those who may not be keen on having a drink in the morning, there are a few supplements and herbal extracts that can provide an energy boost and help to improve your mood. Here are a few to try:
Cacao: Cacao, or cocoa, is a great way to get your daily dose of antioxidants and energizing nutrients such as magnesium and iron. You can add some to your smoothies, yogurt or oats for a delicious and nutritious morning treat.
Maca Powder: Maca is a root vegetable that’s known for its energizing properties. You can add a scoop of maca powder to your smoothies, pancakes or oatmeal for an extra energizing boost in the morning.
Adaptogens: Adaptogens are herbs that help to reduce anxiety and stress, as well as improve your mood and focus. Try adding some ashwagandha, Rhodiola or ginseng to your morning drink for an extra calming and energizing kick.
Vitamin B Complex: Taking a Vitamin B complex in the morning can help to give you an extra boost of energy, as well as improve your mood and focus. You can take a supplement or add foods rich in B vitamins to your diet such as eggs, leafy greens and dairy.
