We know that morning cup of coffee is a sacred thing. But if you’re looking to cut down on your caffeine intake or find a new cup of coffee-free happiness to drink in the morning, we’ve prepared four ideas with the recipes. Did we catch your attention? Cool, look at the recipes below.
1. Chicory coffee
Not really coffee at all, chicory “coffee” is made from roasted chicory roots as opposed to coffee beans. It does not contain caffeine, so there is much less noise around it. Its nutty, earthy taste is also closest to the traditional taste of coffee, making it a great choice for coffee lovers looking to reduce their caffeine intake. This infusion provides all the benefits of chicory root, including prebiotic fiber, vitamin B-6, and anti-inflammatory properties. Chicory root is excellent for gut health thanks to its inulin fiber content, which helps with bowel function, reduces constipation, and helps maintain a balance of healthy gut bacteria.
Manual
To make chicory coffee, mix 2 tablespoons of ground, roasted chicory root in 1 cup of hot water and wait 10 minutes before drinking.
2. Turmeric golden milk
Anti-inflammatory golden milk is so nicknamed because of the yellow, sun-kissed hue provided by ground turmeric. Turmeric, “the golden spice,” really does it all. This powerful spice has been shown to provide benefits ranging from pain relief to reducing symptoms of depression. This is thanks to the compound curcumin, which gives turmeric its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Pepper enhances turmeric’s bioavailability, making the spice more effective in small doses, so it’s a great addition to your cup.
Manual
To prepare a delicious cup of golden milk, combine half a teaspoon of ground turmeric with 1 cup of milk of your choice. Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, honey to taste (optional) and a pinch of cinnamon and black pepper. Heat on the stove until the milk is frothy and serve.
3. Yerba mate
Yerba mate, a tea-like concoction made from the Ilex paraguariensis tree, has been used both medically and socially for centuries. And now it might be your new favorite coffee-free swap. Yerba mate contains more antioxidants than any other tea-like beverage (yes, including green tea!) and a host of therapeutic benefits. This is due to the abundance of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants present in the plant. Green tea also contains caffeine, which is great for people who want to get rid of the coffee but not the buzz. This isn’t just good news for energy levels, but also for increased endurance, healthy weight management, and more.
Manual
To make a cup of yerba mate, steep the leaves in hot water like you would a tea and strain it, or use a traditional mate straw (bombilla) and cup.
4. Mushroom tea
To replace his coffee with a highly nutritious drink, sip a mushroom-filled infusion. A mushroom tea is loaded with antioxidants to fight oxidative stress and powerful prebiotics to support digestive health. With all the antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting qualities of mushrooms, there’s more than one reason to try this earthy brew. For a serious natural energy boost, try Cordyceps mushrooms.
Manual
Although you can buy mushroom coffee already brewed, it’s also easy to make your own mushroom tea at home. To do this, mix a teaspoon of mushroom powder with a cup of hot water.
5. Chia seed drink
Turns out, chia seeds make a pretty awesome drink to swap with your cup of coffee. It’s logic. Although these seeds are tiny, they pack a mighty punch of fiber, antioxidants, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutrients. Small but mighty chia seeds have been proven to reduce both inflammation and blood pressure and stabilize blood sugar levels. And as studies conducted on athletes show, chia seeds can be an excellent source of long-lasting energy and increased endurance.
Manual
To make this simple two-ingredient drink, mix one tablespoon of chia seeds to one cup of water and let sit in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. Personalize the chia drink by adding a touch of honey or agave, a squeeze of lemon or fruit juice.
