Do you start the day with a cup of coffee? It’s because it stimulates the nervous system, gives us an instant energy boost, and elevates our mood. In addition, coffee is infused with antioxidants and provides beneficial nutrients that are good for our health. However, it is only when coffee is consumed within a sensible limit. This is because coffee contains caffeine, and a single cup of java contains 40 mg of caffeine on average. Now, several research studies have highlighted that only 200 mg of caffeine intake per day is safe. So, having more than five cups of coffee in a day puts you at the risk of caffeine addiction. Moreover, higher caffeine intake can also result in anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues, high blood pressure, increased heart rate, among other disorders. So, how to reduce your caffeine intake and yet feel energetic and healthy?
Here are a few healthier alternatives you must replace to lead a healthy life:
- Infusion Tea: If green or black tea is not your cup of tea, you can go for infusion tea. It is a green or black tea mixed with the infusion of a particular flower, leaf, etc. Not only does it add flavour, but it also enhances the health benefits of drinking tea. There are many exciting options like infusing the essence of rose, moringa, hibiscus, chamomile or flavour of lemon or ginger, which add to the health benefits. Like chamomile aids in improving metabolism, lemon aids in increasing alkalinity in the body.
- Green Tea: One of the easiest ways to reduce caffeine intake is to replace it with green tea. This tea comes in a variety of flavours and offers multiple health benefits. These include increased metabolism, which helps in burning fat and reducing weight. Being the source of L-theanine, green tea helps in reducing stress, counteracting anxiety and fighting depression. The best part is that a cup of green tea can be consumed at any given point of the day as it helps in relaxing both mind and body.
- Lemon Water: Another alternative to ditch caffeine is lemon water, which brings health benefits. Replacing your morning coffee with chilled lemon water will keep you hydrated. Since lemons are a good source of vitamin C, lemon water in the morning helps in reducing the risk of lower blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and stroke.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This drink with various health benefits also makes for a suitable replacement. It is vinegar made from apples or fermented apple juice. The glass is filled with beneficial nutrients and is excellent for weight loss as it reduces cravings by inducing satiety.
- Kombucha: Consuming Kombucha is associated with perks like improved gut health and a better mood. Among its many benefits include boosting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the immune system.
If you are aware of your caffeine addiction and are looking forward to replacing it with healthier options, these are some of the alternatives you must integrate with your daily routine.
(Inputs by Ms Dolly Kumar, Founder & Director at Cosmic Nutracos Solutions Pvt. Ltd., the parent company to health and wellness brand Gaia.)