(NaturalHealth365)  Did you know that the average American consumes at least two cups of coffee every single day?  That’s right – coffee has become an integral part of life for many people.  In fact, more than half of Americans can’t start their day without indulging in several cups of this beloved beverage.  But have you ever considered the potential drawbacks of relying on coffee as your go-to morning pick-me-up?

It turns out that coffee comes with its fair share of downsides.  The high acidity levels can wreak havoc on your digestive system, while the increased heart rate might leave you feeling jittery and restless.  What’s more, coffee’s dehydrating effects can leave your body craving more fluids throughout the day.  And here’s a startling fact: excessive coffee consumption has even been linked to limitations in learning capabilities and the brain’s all-important plasticity.

But thankfully, there are alternative options that can give you the boost you need without subjecting your body to these potential drawbacks.  Instead of reaching for that familiar cup of coffee each morning, why not consider these enticing alternatives?

Kickstart your day in a healthier and more refreshing way

The entrepreneurial spirit that characterizes America has paved a new path toward morning energy options.  Consider a healthy and refreshing alternative to coffee, and you’ll feel energized without suffering the downsides of a traditional cup of coffee.

The little-known truth is caffeine is naturally occurring in several plants aside from coffee beans.  Cocoa beans and tea leaves also contain caffeine.  However, there is no longer a need to consume coffee that contains 30 mg to 350 mg of caffeine per cup when healthier alternatives are available.

You can reduce your intake of highly-acidic coffee along with caffeine that increases the heart rate with a substitute such as a green smoothie, carbo, chicory root coffee, and tea.  In particular, rooibos tea has emerged as a favored substitute for coffee.

Also referred to as “red bush”, this hot tea’s roots are in South Africa.  Rooibos tea is fruity, sweet, and delicious.  Give this tea a chance in the form of loose-leaf or tea bags, and you’ll enjoy quite the morning pick-me-up.  It merely takes 10 minutes to prepare rooibos tea in loose-leaf or tea bag form to start your day off right.

Taste the magic of chicory root coffee

Chicory root is consumed similarly to coffee in that it is ground, roasted, and brewed.  Simply add a couple of tablespoons of roasted chicory grounds to half a dozen ounces of hot water, and you’ll find this coffee substitute tastes and even smells like your morning cup of joe.

Chicory is also revered by nutritionists as it contains inulin, a soluble fiber that promotes digestion, along with gut bacteria that promotes a healthy excretory system.

Carob

Carob, stemming from the fruit pod of carob trees, has an inherent sweetness that pleases the taste buds.  Add in the fact that carob has a texture and taste akin to chocolate, and there is even more reason to add it to your morning regimen.

This highly nutritious coffee substitute is loaded with cancer-fighting antioxidants, has the potential to promote digestion, is anti-inflammatory, and even combats the formation of harmful bacteria.  Carob’s minerals and pinitol are its most important components as they energize the body, similar to the manner in which chocolate invigorates.

Maca

Maca, a cruciferous veggie, is grouped with the likes of kale, cabbage, and broccoli.  Maca is primarily sourced from Central Peru’s Andes mountains.  You can purchase Maca in convenient powdered form and add it to hot water, smoothies, or your morning cereal.

Maca will help you make it through the day with vigor and even make it easier to process information.

Start the morning with an energizing smoothie

The right combination of vegetables and fruits in a morning smoothie will kick-start your day without the harmful effects of coffee.  For example, you can load up a blender with water or coconut water, avocado, your favorite greens, maca powder, hemp seeds plus frozen banana and/or blueberries for a satisfying smoothie that tastes amazing.

Nuts

While these little powerhouses may not contain caffeine, they are bursting with a myriad of nutritious components that will fuel your mind and body, making it easier to tackle any challenge that comes your way.

Nuts are a treasure trove of essential minerals, healthy fats, vitamins, antioxidants, and the all-important protein.  This incredible combination works synergistically to provide you with a sustained and natural source of energy, giving you the stamina and focus you need to excel.

Ginseng

Ginseng, a popular herb in Asian countries with a rich history of use in traditional medicine, has gained widespread recognition for its medicinal properties.  For thousands of years, ginseng has been cherished for its ability to enhance overall well-being.  Whether consumed as ginseng extract or in its natural root form, this remarkable herb offers a range of benefits that energize the body, enhance cognitive ability, and help mitigate stress.

One of the key reasons for ginseng’s popularity is its ability to provide a natural boost of energy.  By revitalizing the body, ginseng helps combat fatigue and promotes a sense of vitality.  Instead of relying on artificial stimulants, ginseng offers a more sustainable and natural way to stay energized throughout the day.

Start your mornings right and embrace a healthier way to fuel your body and mind with delicious, organic ingredients.  The rewards are worth the effort.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
Medicalnewstoday.com
Statista.com