Post-meal beverages that banish sleepiness instantly: An explore of alternative refreshments followed by a meal.
For those seeking an afternoon pick-me-up without the jitters and crashes associated with coffee, several natural alternatives offer a balanced and sustained energy boost. These alternatives, such as matcha, yerba mate, ginger tea, and herbal teas with ginseng, provide a gentler, more focused energy source compared to coffee.
Matcha, a Japanese powdered green tea, is packed with antioxidants, amino acids, and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm focus. The unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha results in a longer-lasting and smoother energy lift compared to coffee[1]. Matcha is known for its calming effects while providing energy, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a focused and relaxed energy boost.
Yerba mate, a traditional South American drink, is another excellent alternative. Made from the leaves of the Paraguayan holly tree, it contains mateine, a substance similar to caffeine that acts more gently and sustainably. Yerba mate provides a smooth energy lift without the jitters often caused by coffee[1]. In addition to its energising properties, yerba mate is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
Ginger tea, known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, is another natural energy booster. While it does not contain caffeine, its warming and stimulating properties can help combat fatigue and invigorate the senses. Ginger tea can be flavoured with lemon and honey to taste.
Herbal teas, like ginseng and ginger, can be beneficial alternatives to caffeinated drinks. Ginseng tea is an herbal tea with adaptogen properties that helps the body cope with stress and fatigue. Siberian ginseng tea has toning properties and increases stamina. Both varieties of ginseng provide a gentle, grounded stimulation suitable for afternoon pick-me-ups[1][4].
In contrast to coffee, these alternatives often promote a steadier energy flow. Coffee's high caffeine content can cause quick jolts followed by energy dips and sometimes anxiety or sleep disturbances, whereas alternatives like matcha and mate provide a more balanced, calm alertness thanks to their unique compounds[1].
Ginger tea, unlike mate and matcha, does not provide sustained alertness or improve focus in the same way. However, it does improve blood circulation, making it a great choice for those seeking a natural energy boost with additional health benefits.
In summary, Mate, Matcha, Ginger Tea, and Herbal Teas with Ginseng are excellent natural options to replace your afternoon coffee, offering energy boosts that support focus and vitality without the downsides associated with caffeine overload. These alternatives provide a gentler, more focused energy source compared to coffee, making them ideal for those seeking a more balanced energy boost.
[1] Healthline. (2021). Matcha: Benefits, Nutrition, and Risks. [online] Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/matcha-green-tea#benefits [2] Rise Brewing Co. (2021). RISE Organic Coffee Alternative. [online] Available at: https://www.risebrewingco.com/products/rise-original [3] Thrive Market. (2021). Organic Caffeine-Free Energy Shots. [online] Available at: https://www.thrivemarket.com/p/caffeine-free-energy-shots [4] Medical News Today. (2020). The health benefits of ginger. [online] Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323551
Matcha, a Japanese green tea, is one alternative in health-and-wellness that is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and L-theanine, promoting calm focus for a balanced and sustained energy boost in lifestyle. In contrast, ginger tea, known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, while improving blood circulation, does not provide the same sustained alertness and focus as matcha and other herbal teas like those with ginseng.
