Coffee is a lifeline to many of us in times of need (like that 3 p.m. slump or the morning after a 2 a.m. Netflix binge). But sometimes, coffee isn’t an option, whether it’s your stomach or your watch calling the shots. (Remember, drinking caffeine too close to bedtime can significantly affect your sleep.) When you need an energy boost but don’t want to brew another cup of joe, try these substitutes instead.
Matcha
As you scroll through your Insta feed, you see a beautiful, heart-stopping green drink. That bright hue comes from matcha, a powder created by grinding up young tea leaves. Matcha is a trendy caffeine source containing L-theanine, an amino acid responsible for relaxation that can reduce caffeine-related jitters. Matcha is most often made into tea, but you can also find it in other beverages like matcha lemonade.
Green Tea
Green tea is not the same as matcha tea, and it’s actually less green in color. This coffee alternative comes with a plethora of health benefits. Studies have shown that green tea consumption may be linked to lower risks of cancer. It is also believed to boost metabolism and minimize heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Experts believe that green tea provides its highest health benefits when we drink three to five cups daily.
Chai Tea
If you like black tea, look to chai when coffee isn’t an option. With lower caffeine contents and benefits similar to those of green teas (both come from Camellia sinensis plants), chai can provide a boost to both your energy and your overall health.
Kombucha
Another form of tea, kombucha offers numerous health benefits and contains less caffeine than a cup of coffee (meaning no sudden boosts and crashes). This makes it a great option for when it’s a little too late in the day to drink coffee without messing up your chances of sleeping later.
Smoothies
Instead of taking energy in the form of caffeine, consider pulling it from the natural ingredients of fruits and veggies! Not only will a smoothie give you an energy boost, but it can provide lots of vitamins and minerals that your body needs and doesn’t get from your regular diet. Just beware of overly sugary options, which can cause energy “crashes,” among other potential health problems.
Lemon Water
While it doesn’t contain caffeine like other coffee substitutes, lemon water can give you a big boost of vitamin C, which sometimes is all you need to replenish your energy. Plus, the vitamin C found in lemons has a positive impact on your immune system. This option is also calorie-free!
There’s no shame in needing some coffee; many of us do, maybe more often than we’d like to admit. But when you are looking for that boost and coffee isn’t an option, try these alternatives!