Alternatives to Coffee

ogs-latte-to-go-166x220I love a caffeine push just like anyone else but sometimes I just want to change it up. The occasional latte is okay but I have the terrible habit of adding so much sugar and cream that coffee is just no longer coffee.

So for the mornings where I don’t want to load up on calories or I’m just looking for something different, these are my go to alternatives.

                    1. Energy Drinks

Red-Bull-Editions-2015Are they healthy? Eh. Do they taste good? Debatable. I personally love energy drinks, but just for when I am needing a real wake up call. The sugar and chemicals don’t make it any healthier than coffee but it can be more effective. I’m personally a big fan of the flavored Red Bulls. The ones on the left are zero calories, so they are a nice go to if I’m in a hurry but still want to avoid unnecessary calories. Still, energy drinks shouldn’t be an every day thing-so lets look at other options 🙂

2. V8 Energy 

home_product_shotThese are a great compromise for people who want an energy drink but want to keep it natural or more chemical free. V8’s taste just like light fruit juice but with added caffeine. The calories are low, just 50 for the fusion+energy combos. These are great for an afternoon pick me up. They have more caffeine than the average cup of tea but less than coffee, so you won’t crash later or be stuck feeling wide awake late into the evening.

4E5B9938-CB00-AAAF-408B-BE0EC4A3B764I am a huge fan of the mixed berry but they’ve recently introduced a wild cherry flavor that I’m in love with as well. Their small size is perfect too! Its super easy to slip one of these into my bag before class for later.

                      3. Tea

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For the truly health conscious or those with a little extra time in the mornings, tea a perfect morning pick me up! I am a huge tea fan and the options are endless here. I’m a fan of a good breakfast or black tea. Again, I like to add sugar and milk but its less than that in a latte so I feel better.

               earl-grey-tea-for-blog-2012Green-Tea-03-445x600tea_cup
However if sugar is not your thing, a bit of lemon or honey goes a long way. In addition to black teas, Green tea is a great caffeine booster as well.

                      4. Water!

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Sometimes caffeine isn’t the best fix all when you’re feeling a little run down. Maybe you’re dehydrated! Ice water is sure to make you feel refreshed and alert.

Picture - Rick Wilson   Dept. News   2-3-04 Bottled water survey

Bottle, tap, or filtered: Just give yourself a few minutes break and water is sure to help you out. Staying hydrated through out the day is a great way to fight fatigue or sugar cravings. If you’re really seeking a kick in the gear, I always recommend La Croix.

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Coming in multiple flavors, this sparking water offers sharp carbonation and no sugar flavors that always wake me up. Seriously, I have a can in my hand right now. These all natural waters are known to keep people on track-many alcoholics or smokers trying to quit actually use them to stem cravings while dieters love them for being a healthy alternative to soda.They’re perfect in offices or college dorms for late night projects or for an outside picnic in the park.

What’s your caffeine go to? I’m always looking for new ways to get my energy fix so let me know!