5 coffee alternatives to help you stay awake

Most of us would agree that mornings call for a good cup of coffee. From latte to Americano, to the heavenly amazing cappuccino, coffee is what makes us run. Caffeine seems to give you the much needed kick for the day. But excessive intake of caffeine is unhealthy, and trying to cut down on it is looks difficult. Fret not, because here are 5 alternatives to coffee to keep you awake:

Matcha Tea

Matcha is a root plant which is ground to get fine green powder. The caffeine in Matcha acts as a good source of energy, and has excellent detoxifying properties.

What’s unique about Matcha is that while keeps you alert, it also simultaneously relaxes your body. The amount of caffeine in a cup of Matcha tea is almost half of what is present in a cup of coffee. Plus, Matcha tea can get you a healthy, glowing skin! 

Green Tea

Green tea spells health all over. According to Bustle, in addition to being beneficial for your immunity and metabolism, green tea is a great beverage that you can consume instead of coffee. Dr Anthony Kouri, MD, and orthopaedic surgeon at the University of Toledo Medical Center says, "Green tea is minimally processed and has the greatest health benefits of all available teas."

He explains, "Multiple studies have shown that people who drink green tea are much less likely to get bladder, breast, lung, stomach, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. In addition, research indicates that green tea helps reduce type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The caffeine in green tea helps to improve mental acuity as well as [increased] metabolism." Ideally, you should drink up to 3-5 cups per day for optimum results.

Smoothies

Nutritious but delicious at the same time, smoothies act as amazing energy-boosters. They make for a great alternative to coffee. What’s more? You can experiment a lot with flavours when it comes to your must-have breakfast drink.

"Smoothies provide servings of fruits and vegetables, which many of us lack in our diet," says Dr Daniela Novotny, dietician/employee wellness consultant at Missouri State University. She adds, "Adding a protein, such as yogurt, will help fill you up. Smoothies are a great start to the day with carbohydrates, fiber, antioxidants and protein."

Apple Cider Vinegar

A go-to solution for weight loss, apple cider vinegar also prevents diabetes and fights inflammation. "This is a non-caffeinated drink made from fermented apples, and includes a compound called acetic acid," Kouri says. "This has been shown to have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels."

However, it’s important to note that directly consuming apple cider vinegar can damage your tooth enamel. The ideal way is to mix one or two tbsp in a cup of water, or to add some to your salad.

Golden Milk

A traditional Indian beverage, golden milk has a lot of health benefits. The key ingredient of the drink, turmeric, is an excellent antioxidant. In addition to being high on energy, it also helps in proper functioning of the brain. "This is a non-caffeinated, traditional Indian drink that is made warm, and includes ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and black pepper. Honey and vanilla may be added as well," Kouri says.

Ginger, turmeric and cinnamon are known to keep cardiovascular diseases at bay. In addition, turmeric milk can also lower your chances of developing cancer.