Tea
When considering alternatives to coffee to help stay awake, tea should be one of the first options to consider. Tea not only contains caffeine, just like coffee, but the effects can be more long lasting. Tea also contains antioxidants and other organic compounds which can help to boost one’s mood and focus, as well as providing greater cognitive benefits. According to a study published in the journal Phytomedicine, subjects who drank tea felt more alert and had improved reaction times. Tea also contains amino acid L-theanine which helps to reduce stress and headaches.
The variety of different teas available allows for an almost limitless supply of flavours, and one can enjoy black, white, oolong, gray, or herbal tea varieties. All of them can provide a healthy and natural way of staying alert. For those who are not comfortable with the caffeine content of tea, caffeine-free teas can be an alternative, such as rooibos, honeybush, chamomile, or mint tea.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are good options for staying awake and increasing alertness. Fresh fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as well as natural sugars, which can give a boost in energy levels. They also contain fiber, which can help to maintain steady blood sugar levels and avoid energy crashes. Some of the best fruits and vegetables for providing energy include apples, oranges, bananas, blueberries, spinach, kale, zucchini, and sweet potatoes.
Fruit and vegetable juices are also an option if one is looking to increase their energy levels. Juices contain natural sugars and vitamins, as well as electrolytes, which can help to maintain a steady energy level. Some of the best juices include carrot, beet, spinach, celery, or apple juice. It is important to remember, however, that juices lack fiber, so it is better to eat the actual fruits and vegetables instead if possible.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are nutritionally dense foods that are packed with energy-boosting components. Nuts are a good source of proteins, healthy fats, and fiber, whereas seeds are a source of proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These nutrients can provide a steady and balanced release of energy inone’s body. Examples of nuts and seeds include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, flaxseed, chia seeds, and sunflower seeds. These foods are also easy to carry around and can be eaten as snacks throughout the day.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a good option to consider for increasing alertness. Yogurt contains proteins and carbohydrates, which can help to provide a steady and sustained release of energy throughout the day. It also contains calcium and probiotics, which can help with digestion and improve one’s mood. Furthermore, yogurt can be a good alternative to sugary snacks and provide a great source of energy without the added sugar.
Energy Drinks
Energy drinks are an option for those seeking an extreme boost in energy. These drinks contain a combination of ingredients, such as caffeine, taurine, ginseng, guarana, and B vitamins. These ingredients can help to provide a short-term boost in energy. However, it is important to note that these drinks are also high in sugar, and they can be quite addictive, so they should be used in moderation and not as a daily alternative to coffee.
Supplements
There are also several supplements available on the market that can help to increase energy levels and alertness. Some of these supplements include vitamin B12, gingko biloba, and ashwagandha. These supplements are natural and can help to increase alertness and focus. However, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional before taking these supplements, as some of them can interact negatively with certain medications.
Herbal Drinks
Herbal drinks are a natural and healthy alternative to coffee. Herbal drinks are made from extracts of various herbs and plants, such as ginseng, licorice, and guarana. These herbal drinks can provide a boost in energy without the crash that is common with energy drinks. They are also a great way to get in extra vitamins and minerals, while still providing an energy boost.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has many health benefits, including increased alertness. Kombucha is made with tea and sugar and is then fermented with a culture known as the “kombucha SCOBY”. This fermentation process produces trace amounts of caffeine, which can provide an energy boost, as well as probiotics and antioxidants. Kombucha is available in a wide range of flavors and makes a great alternative to coffee.
Yerba Mate
Yerba maté is a type of tea from South America that is thought to have energy-boosting properties. The tea is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant and is then steeped and slightly sweetened. Yerba mate contains caffeine, but it is a special type of caffeine known as xanthines. This type of caffeine is thought to have longer-lasting effects and more benefits without the jittery feeling.
Energy-Boosting Foods
Certain foods can also provide a boost in energy levels. These include oatmeal, wholegrain bread, eggs, avocados, Greek yogurt, dark chocolate, chia seeds, and nuts. These foods contain proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, which can help to provide a steady release of energy throughout the day. Eating these foods in moderation can help to sustain energy levels and keep on alert.
Spices
Certain spices can help to boost energy levels and alertness. These include ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and cinnamon. Ginger can help to reduce nausea and headaches, whereas turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Black pepper helps to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, and cayenne pepper has been shown to boost metabolism. Finally, cinnamon can help to improve blood sugar levels.
