Feeling the afternoon slump? While a steaming cup of kopi might be your go-to for a jolt, it’s not the only way to get that much-needed pick-me-up.

There are plenty of coffee alternatives that are sure to power up your workday, and best of all, they also provide additional health benefits.

Here are five coffee alternatives that can help keep you energised throughout your workday:

1. Matcha

If you’re looking for a coffee alternative that offers a gentle energy boost without the jitters, matcha can be your new go-to. Derived from the same plant as green tea, matcha provides sustained energy throughout the day.

This is because of its unique composition, which includes L-theanine, an amino acid that can help balance out the effects of caffeine. The L-theanine in matcha is also said to help ease anxiety, stress and reduce insomnia. 

2. Peppermint Tea

If you drink coffee for the energy-kick, peppermint tea can be a great alternative. Its invigorating, minty flavour packs a punch to kick-start your day.

Traditionally, peppermint tea is also great for digestion. Its main ingredients—menthol and methyl salicylate—can calm the muscles of the stomach and improve the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fat. This makes it an ideal choice to prep your body for a productive day at work.

The scent of peppermint tea can also have calming effects on the body and mind, which can aid in reducing stress levels at work.

3. Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage known for its probiotic content, which supports gut health and overall well-being.

While it only contains a small amount of caffeine, kombucha is known to give you an energy boost due to its B vitamins, enzymes, and organic acids that can also enhance your digestion and increase vitality.

4. Lemon Zest Water

Sometimes, all it takes to awaken your senses is a simple glass of lemon zest water.

It is calorie and caffeine-free but can still provide a natural energy boost thanks to its ample Vitamin C content, which supports and maintains energy production. Without it, you may experience fatigue and mood dips.

Additionally, lemon zest water is an excellent source of potassium — a vital nutrient that supports brain and nerve function, thereby increasing alertness.

5. Mixed Berry Smoothie

You can also consider starting your day with a delicious mixed berry smoothie. Dark-coloured berries, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries, can reduce fatigue levels when consumed as a smoothie, due to a beneficial compound found in many plant foods known as a flavonoid.

Apart from boosting your energy levels, flavonoids are also rich in antioxidants, and can help your body ward off everyday toxins. According to a study, adults who consumed mixed-berry smoothies performed better on measures of cognitive function and scored better on attention span and the ability to switch tasks.

Stay Energised Without the Jitters

Sometimes, you can’t have too much of a good thing—and that includes coffee.

Consuming it excessively might make you feel jittery, anxious, and nauseous, and you might become overly-dependent on it.

These alternatives can provide you with the same pick-me-up effects without the caffeine crash, allowing you to remain productive and feel your best throughout the workday.

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