Yerba mate and other excellent coffee alternatives

There is life beyond coffee

"I'm not myself until I've had my morning coffee." If we got a dollar every time we heard a phrase like that, we'd have enough to fund a lifetime of coffees. And that's a lot of coffee.

2 billion cups per day

It's estimated that over 2 billion cups of coffee are consumed worldwide every single day. It's only natural to think that some of those consumers might get tired of the same old daily brew, a sentiment not shared by everyone, obviously.

Not better, not worse: different

But for those looking for alternatives, it's good to know there's a whole world beyond coffee, and here are some suggestions for you.

Mate

Yerba mate is extremely popular in Latin American countries and is the quintessential coffee substitute. It contains caffeine, antioxidants, and aids digestion. It's becoming easier to find it anywhere in the world as its popularity continues to soar. However, it has an earthy and bitter taste, which isn't everyone's cup of tea.

Photo: Unsplash - Jorge Zapata

Ginger with lemon and honey

The combination of these three ingredients not only provides a very pleasant taste but also offers significant health benefits. It's packed with vitamins B, C, and D and has anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and antioxidant properties. It's one of the most recommended alternatives... but sorry, no caffeine.

Matcha tea

Another very popular alternative to coffee due to its properties and benefits for the body. However, be aware that its caffeine level can be double that of coffee, of course depending how much is put into the drink.

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Cocoa

Often considered a kid-friendly alternative to coffee, cocoa contains theophylline and theobromine, which provide energy to the body, as well as, yes, some caffeine. The catch is that many cocoa products have a high sugar content, which complicates this recommendation.

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Chicory

Chicory coffee is caffeine-free and has a flavor and look similar to that of coffee, making it an ideal substitute. Additionally, it provides a significant amount of fiber and pre-biotics to the body.

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Yaupon tea

Yaupon is a plant native to North America with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Its energizing power is similar to that of coffee, and although it contains caffeine, it is considered healthier than coffee.

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Smoothies

Why not? Replacing your morning coffee with a fruit and vegetable smoothie will give you vitamins, nutrients, and energy to face the day. Plus, you can mix it with water, dairy, plant-based drinks, chocolate, or whatever you see fit. It's your smoothie, so add whatever you want (coffee?).

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Barley coffee (Caffè d'orzo)

Despite its name, it doesn't taste like coffee; it's more akin to a caffeine-free soft drink.

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Green tea

Its stimulating properties (yes, caffeine) help wake up the body. Plus, it's rich in vitamins A, C, and E and has antioxidant properties that can reduce the effects of aging. It's also very easy to find.

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Kombucha

Its fame has grown in recent years, and it's becoming more common to see this drink derived from tea fermentation. Kombucha is a probiotic product with antioxidant properties and a unique taste that is loved or hated.

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Licorice tea

Licorice root is digestive, anti-inflammatory, and caffeine-free. The issue for many is its acquired taste. But beyond that, it's a very healthy option for those looking to cut back on coffee.

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Rooibos tea

This South African herb is full of calcium, potassium, iron, and antioxidants. It also boosts the immune system and reduces blood pressure. Plus, it's caffeine-free.

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Golden milk

A true healthy delicacy made from milk, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, honey, and cinnamon. You can add more ingredients according to your taste and desired properties. It's a DIY approach to your everyday beverage.

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Masala chai

This is a blend of black tea with various spices, resulting in a robust drink with less caffeine than coffee and high antioxidant properties.

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Lemon water

As simple as it is effective. Switching from coffee to a glass of lemon water cuts down calorie and caffeine intake to zero (if you drink your coffee with milk or sugar), replacing them with a drink rich in vitamin C and highly detoxifying. It's like water, but better!

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