We live in a world swarming with coffee connoisseurs though opinions about health impacts of drinking the stuff are all over the board. Whether it be for a flavor we love, a grounding morning ritual or simply to meet our caffeine needs, many of us turn to coffee for the no-brainer solution. But, many of us also experience the jittery, negative energy crash impact. So, why not venture to try something new? Swap your coffee habit for a healthier alternative (or a combo of a couple!) and start to see and feel the difference, body and mind. Here are some simple suggestions to incorporate into your day:
1. Eat breakfast. Medical studies reveal that people who eat breakfast regularly show increases in learning ability, attention span, and a general well being.¹ Try a healthy smoothie (like this one from 3 Boys Unprocessed) or a breakfast high in in protein to pack the energetic punch.
2. Green Tea. Like coffee, green tea comes in many types, making it easy to find your perfect flavor. With a high concentration of antioxidants and lower caffeine than coffee, green tea improves mental alertness, memory and cognition without the jittery side effects. We love the many varieties from David’s Tea.
3. Hit the gym. Just 10-45 minutes of physical activity results in a boost in concentration by improving blood flow to the brain. Too busy to schedule in a gym trip or fitness class? Try one of these 7 minute workouts from Bembu in the morning. You can even sneak in some exercise by parking farther from your office, taking a walk on your lunch break or, opting to take the stairs.
4. Wheatgrass. In addition to many health and beauty benefits² of wheatgrass, this green food gives you natural energy. One reason? The chlorophyll it contains helps to increase oxygen supply in your body’s cells and tissues, contributing to cell regeneration, which heals the body and reduces fatigue symptoms.
5. Lemon Water. Drinking a glass of lemon water first thing in the morning will give you an instant boost of energy. Amongst hydrating and oxygenating the body and many other health benefits,³ the scent alone will energize you and lift your mood.
¹ Dr. Hall, Kathleen., Alter Your Life: Overbooked? Overworked? Overwhelmed? (Georgia: Oak Haven, 2005) 49.
² Erman, Aylin, “51 Amazing Wheatgrass Benefits for Health, Hair, and Beauty” http://www.organicauthority.com/health/15-uses-for-wheatgrass-juice.html, (November 2, 2015).
³ Brady, Krissy, “11 Benefits of Lemon Water You Didn’t Know About”, www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/11-benefits-lemon-water-you-didnt-know-about.html