Looking for healthy caffeine substitutes to help you kick that coffee addiction? We’ve got you. Read on to find out what options you have.
We’re not going to say you need to quit caffeine. But if you want to, here’s what could happen. First (and this is a big one), are the money-saving benefits. Quitting your daily fix could save you thousands (yes, thousands) of dollars a year. Then there are the other benefits such as reduced anxiety, improved sleep, better mood, healthier (and whiter!) teeth, lower blood pressure and so on, and so on.
While our daily cuppa’s do give us that initial kick of adrenaline, high levels of caffeine are pretty dangerous for the body – with negative side-effects like increased blood pressure, abnormal heartbeat rates and frequent dizziness. In fact, many of us only drink coffee because of the perceived (and desired) effect it has on our energy levels. However, studies have shown that, after time, our bodies build up quite the tolerance to it, negating many of those expected energy-boosting effects. Plus, when the caffeine eventually wears off, the body experiences an energy crash, which isn’t ideal, to say the least.
With that and wellness on our mind, we’ve compiled five caffeine substitutes that give you the same (or even better!) kick to get those all-important energy levels up and running.
Coconut Water
Ever wondered why coconut water is often referred to as the miracle drink? This thirst-quencher is not only low in calories but high in natural minerals as well, providing you with the same adrenaline rush and dopamine levels that coffee gives you – without the side effects. Consuming this refreshing and popular substitute instead of coffee, lowers your risk of high blood pressure and osteoporosis, whilst boosting your heart health at the same time. On top of that, coconut water abounds with electrolytes, making it one of the most hydrating drinks out there!
Insider’s Tip: How to choose the right coconut? Shake the coconut and, if it makes a sloshing noise, know that that means that the coconut is fresh.
Where to Find: Your local supermarket
Kombucha Tea
Step aside coffee, this is a job for Kombucha. A fermented fizzy drink that is drunk for its many health benefits, the Kombucha superdrink trend is one that’s almost certainly here to stay. Containing antioxidants that kill harmful bacteria in the body, this drink helps in fighting a variety of diseases. It’s also known to be useful for treating memory loss, preventing cancer and regulating bowel movements. Basically, it’s a healthy, energising drink – without the crash that comes with caffeine.
Insider’s Tip: Looking for your Kombucha around Hong Kong? Check out our list of Hong Kong’s Best Kombucha.
Where to Find: Wonder Drink
Wheatgrass Juice
Ever wondered why so many people swear by gulping down a shot of Wheatgrass Juice each and every morning? This energy-boosting drink provides an instant surge of energy that will keep you up and running all day long, the same way one good ol’ cuppa does, but without that nasty side-effects. Wheatgrass carries high levels of nutrients including calcium, iron, amino acids and magnesium – all of which are incredibly good for the body and mind!
Insider’s Tip: The perfect way juice your wheatgrass? Harvest and wash approximately ¼ of wheatgrass per single shot of juice, chop the grass into smaller pieces, and use a juicer to blend. Voila!
Where to Find: Your local supermarket or wet market
Hot Apple Cider
Made up of strong vitamins and polyphenols, there are many that say that nothing quite beats a perfectly spiced cup of Hot Apple Cider. Offering various health benefits such as weight loss, reduced cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure, this fermented beverage truth to the old adage of “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” One thing to note, however, is that the key here is to enjoy it in moderation, as it’s fairly high in both sugar and calories.
Insider’s Tip: Looking to make your own homemade Hot Apple Cider? All you need is some real maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, allspice berries, orange peel, lemon peel, apple cider.
Where to Find: Your local supermarket
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Yerba Mate
A herbal tea that hales from South America, Yerba Mate is said to provide drinkers with the strength of coffee, the health benefits of tea and the sheer euphoria of chocolate, all in one. Sound too good to be true? Well, it gets better. Rich in nutrients, Yerba Mate also contains antioxidant compounds which may protect against heart disease and is known to boost your immune systems and enhances physical performance.
Insider’s Tip: Most-liked Yerba Mate flavours? Lemon or Orange.
Where to Find: The Republic Of Tea
