11 Coffee Replacements That Won't Drain Your Energy
I know, it's tough to believe, but caffeinated coffee actually isn't that helpful for your energy, especially long-term. And if you're stressed, have hormonal imbalances, experience any blood sugar dysfunction, or have trouble sleeping, it's really helpful to at least lessen your intake.
You’re probably thinking, “But I could never give up coffee!” And to that, I’d say: You’d be surprised.
The key (besides the awareness that your coffee habit might be problematic for your health) is finding a replacement you enjoy! Many people do rely on coffee to get them going in the morning, but many others only drink it out of habit or even the ritual it provides. Even if you feel reliant on coffee, a week or two without it may prove otherwise.
Am I saying you need to stop drinking coffee? No way! Would it be a good idea to give yourself a break or just swapping your PM cup as an experiment to see how you feel? Sure! And at the very least, reducing your reliance on it will benefit your health in so many ways.
Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
Here are 11 other ideas:
Swiss water-processed decaf coffee: A healthier way of processing coffee to remove caffeine without chemicals. My absolute favorite brand is Purity Coffee (use this link to get 20% your first order!)
Mushroom "elixir": Certain mushrooms (i.e. reishi, chaga, lion's mane) have amazing benefits- like supporting stress-response, immune function, and brain power. I love MUD/WTR and Four Sigmatic. You can also add a blend like this one to decaf or tea.
Roasted dandelion drink: At first, this may sound weird, I know. But roasted dandelion root actually has a coffee-like flavor plus has added benefits- particularly supporting the liver. (And it’s often mixed with chicory, which has its own benefits, too). It’s the main ingredient in the coffee alternative, Dandy Blend, as well as Teeccino Dandelion Dark Roast “tea.”
Adaptogen "coffee”: An option that supports your adrenals instead of causing stress- adaptogens are a class of herbs that help your body handle stress. Rasa is a favorite brand of mine that makes different options (I personally love the Cacao).
Decaf chai latte: Chai has a warming, comforting taste so it's a great replacement for coffee. (It's made from black tea, so grab decaf to eliminate caffeine). Four Sigmatic with reishi and turkey tail mushrooms (and it’s caffeine-free). Or you can simply brew chai tea as usual and then add some warmed/frothed milk. Tazo makes a delicious decaf.
Warm water with fresh lemon juice: Simple, but effective- it’s great for digestive and liver health.
Raw apple cider vinegar and/or bitters "tonic": Use raw apple cider vinegar (1-2 Tbsp.) and/or herbal digestive bitters (a few drops- check the serving size on the brand you buy. Urban Moonshine is my favorite)- both are powerful for supporting digestion and detoxification. Just mix it with water or herbal tea.
Golden milk: A blend of certain spices mixed with warmed milk. The main ingredient, turmeric, is warming and anti-inflammatory. Mix turmeric along with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and/or cardamom into whatever milk you prefer (coconut works really well here) into a saucepan and heat it over low flame. There are also pre-made golden milk mixes you can buy- two delicious, high quality options include Garden of Life and Gaia Herbs.
Herbal teas: Don’t underestimate the powers of herbal tea- especially to boost your energy, mood, and brain clarity! There are hundreds, maybe thousands of different kinds out there- find one you love! Most are naturally caffeine-free- just check. The brands Yogi, Mountain Rose Herbs, and Traditional Medicinals are all high-quality brands with extensive options!
Matcha tea: Ground up green tea leaves that make a super bright green powder rich in antioxidants. (Contains caffeine, but many say it provides a jitter-free boost). You want to ideally find an organic and ceremonial-grade matcha powder like this one by Rishi, but there are so many brands out there!
Hot cacao: No, not the super-processed packets but a DIY version (no worries, it’s so simple!). This one is fun because you can also use so many other ingredients to personalize it. (Contains caffeine, but way less than coffee).
Here’s how I make a simple version: Add 2 cups of milk (your choice) to a saucepan on the stove. Mix in 2 Tbsp. raw cacao or unsweetened cocoa powder and a sprinkle of cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk it together and heat over low heat. Drizzle some pure maple syrup or raw honey in the mug to sweeten. (Makes 2 servings)
Enjoy any of these hot, or even iced if you prefer! Pick one or two that sound good to you and give it a try!
You may even choose to “wean” yourself from coffee- i.e. have a replacement a few days a week and slowly decrease coffee consumption, or go “cold turkey.” But even if you don’t choose to remove coffee for any amount of time, these are still great options for a nice afternoon or evening drink (minus those with caffeine)!