Getting off of caffeine may be easier than you think with these healthier alternatives. Choosing beverages that will give you some nutrient value while you curb your caffeine dependency is a win! Drink these straight up or add a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Roiboos Tea
This was one of the first teas that I tried when I went off of coffee. I had never heard of it until I friend of mine from South Africa suggested I consider it as a swap. Originating in South Africa it is a caffeine free herbal tea. Rooibos tea has a sweet, mild flavor profile with notes of honey and vanilla. The red beverage is one of the most palate-pleasing types of tea and is packed with health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory powers and antioxidant content may help help to protect against many diseases, including cancer, heart disease and diabetes. It also said to improve digestion, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Add lemon, natural sweetener (honey or maple syrup), dairy or dairy alternative and a teaspoon of coconut oil and you have a "bullet tea" . Or, drink it with no additives for a delicious warming drink.
Chaga Mushroom Tea
This nutrient-dense superfood Chaga grows in colder climates in the Northern hemisphere on birch trees. It’s loaded with antioxidant properties to support your immune system and overall wellbeing. It has adaptogenic properties and can help your body adapt to stress and calm down.
Caffeine-free chaga mushroom tea can definitely replace coffee as it provides an energy boost, it’s earthy and slightly bitter in flavour, but still smooth. Some say it tastes like a medium roast coffee.
Check out Four Sigmatic or Harmonic Arts for my favourite mushroom elixirs and teas. There are other mushroom teas that are great as well such as Lions Mane and Cordyceps.
Warm Water and Lemon
This is a simple and affordable alternative to coffee. Who would have thought that having warm water and some lemon in the morning would hydrate you first thing while giving you an energy boost. It has also been known to improve digestion, cleanse the liver, help clear skin and promote good gut health. Thanks to the lemons the citric acid and nutritional properties can help balance blood sugar and boost circulation in our bodies.
Add lemon to hot water.
Chicory Root Coffee
This isn't something that many of us are aware of but is a staple in New Orleans coffee shops and said to be one of the best coffee substitutes. Chicory root (Cichorium intybus) is a blue/purple-flowered perennial plant of the dandelion family. It is a naturally caffeine free herb with a robust flavour and rich smell, both of which closely resemble that of a dark roast brew. Chicory is a good source of inulin. This is a prebiotic fibre that can help with weight loss and gut health. Manganese and B6 are also tied to chicory and could help with brain health.
Easy to make: simply boil a cup of water, add two tablespoons of minced Chicory root, and simmer for 7-10 minutes! Try Teeccino which is a popular brand and can be purchased online or at most natural grocery stores.
Dandelion Blend Coffee
This is an herbal instant coffee like beverage is caffeine free and made from a blend of dandelion root, roasted barley, rye, chicory root, and sugar beet. There are many health benefits from the ingredients it contains. Especially dandelion root because it’s great for cleansing your liver and balancing pH levels in your body. In combination with other herbs it helps clear heat from the body, releases toxins from the liver, and may reduce inflammation. It has a rich deep flavour that is very close to that of coffee.
Use Dandyblend brand for this Caffeine Free Mocha Latte
Golden Latte
A drink that is warming, creamy and delicious. It can be a great coffee alternative to keep you energized throughout the day. Golden milk 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. The various spices and ingredients contain super anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. Studeis have shown that drinking golden milk can improve mental health, memory, and bone density.
Try the Golden Latte Recipe and I am sure that you will be making it again and again.
Herbal Teas
There are a variety of herbal teas and blends that promote good health and provide nutrients that are good for overall well being. Many contain powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and aid in boosting the immune system. Some common herbs are mint, chamomile, lemon balm and holy basil. Teas can also be made from dried roots, and bark such as ginger, astragalus, and nettle. Dried berries like elderberry and goji are wonderful for immune support. It won't taste like coffee but it is definitely a caffeine free healthy alternative.
I hope that these suggestions will give you options to try while you stay away from caffeine or try to limit your intake. These options are packed with flavour and provide health benefits that go a long way.