The Best Coffee Substitutes (2020)
People tend to divide the world into two opposing groups: cat lovers or dog lovers, those who love pizza or those who can’t go without vegetable, iOS users and Android users, and stuff like that. Believe it or not, we fall under one of those groups. The most important one for me is this battle: whether you are a coffee lover or a tea lover. I know the answer where I belong: I am a proud coffee lover, for sure! Well, I used to be, but later about that.
However, many people claim that coffee has potential negative effect on our health, particularly at certain times and when it becomes so addictive that you find it difficult to go a day without it. Well, not the coffee itself, but the ingredients mainly, like caffeine.
Let’s just name some side effects of coffee that you should consider:
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- – Drinking coffee on an empty stomach, like many people do, especially in the mornings, stimulates hydrochloric acid production, resulting many difficulties when it comes to digesting food in your stomach.
- – Many of the compounds in coffee, like caffeine and the various acids found in coffee beans, can irritate your stomach. This is a huge problem for those who suffer from gastritis, ulcers and related diseases.
- – Most importantly, drinking numerous cups of coffee will promote the release of stress hormones. Even though it may seem a positive thing, coffee increases your body’s heart rate, blood pressure and tension levels. Not good!
We think we get energized as we sip our coffee. Well, in case of many people it has turned out to be a kind of jittery tension that is always on and makes it difficult to relax. This gives us a weighty reason to say that excessive coffee consumption may be having some very negative effects on our health in the here and now, particularly on our digestive system and stress levels.
How can you find a solution to coffee side effects?
There a bunch of reasons to consider alternatives to our lovely coffee. To be more precise, ingredients containing in coffee are not encouraging. But how can you give up drinking that sweet and adorable coffee in the mornings, like I did before?
You should not worry: there are some alternative options you can choose from. It is also a good way to beat coffee addicts and claim that if you drink substitutes you do not risk your health at all.
But what is a coffee substitute?
That’s easy: any coffee-related product that has no caffeine and has almost the same effect as coffee is a substitute. So, let me tell you about some coffee substitutes that are relatively the best ones, well according to my opinion and I am trustworthy person. 🙂
When I started my research on coffee alternatives, first thing to hit my mind was searching for them in Amazon. I got a very interesting list that really gave me a splash of hope that I would not abandon my habit of drinking a cup of coffee, I mean imitation of a coffee, in the mornings. To be frank, I have not tried them all, but would like to do so. However, let me tell you what is what in that list that I tried and would recommend to you.
My Reviews On Coffee Substitutes
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#1
Dandy Blend, Instant Herbal Beverage with Dandelion
Dandy Blend is a perfect solution to giving up coffee and not to have headaches or any other symptoms. It contains extracts of roasted barley, rye, chicory root, dandelion root and sugar beet. Besides, no coffee-like drink tastes better than Dandy Blend, as it is more robust, darker and has richer flavor.
If you get the package it says no additives, preservatives, no pesticides and nothing artificial. I believe it is true. To convince you, I will tell you the benefits of dandelion roots. It is one of the most used herbs in the traditional Chinese medicine to treat such issues as liver problems, anemia as its high content in iron and zinc, cholesterol, detoxifiant and others.
Among the benefits are a great aid for skin problems, aids digestion, weight loss, etc. Many people report great results lowering their blood sugar levels with dandelion coffee. So, as you decide to switch from coffee to this herbal beverage, be sure your organism will definitely love it!
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#2
Teeccino Herbal Coffee Alternative, Caffeine-Free
Teeccino is probably the most popular coffee alternative. As they call it, it is a not a decaf, it is a nocaf: no coffee in herbal coffee. What will excite you is the diversity of flavors it offers: French roast organic, vanilla nut, hazelnut, Java, Mocha, organic dandelion roast organic coffee and twelve more… Mmm, already tastes good, right?
Actually, there are 3 distinctive flavor profiles designed for different taste preferences: Mediterranean, Maya, and Dandelion. OK, what about benefits? The best thing is that you get the energy that coffee gives to you from Teeccino as well, not from stimulants, but from nutrients. This substitute is made from roasted herbs that are organically grown in the USA, Europe and other spots of the world. Besides, it is rich in fruits, nuts, herbs and spices to produce a wide variety of flavors. But how to be sure that these ingredients are beneficial for our health? Let us figure it out.
Mediterranean Flavors:
Three organic roasted herbs are enriched in California’s golden roasted almonds and lightly sweetened with dates and figs. Most people find Teeccino’s Mediterranean flavors don’t need further sweetening, allowing them to reduce the mouth of sugar.
The richness of roasted almonds results in a delicious nuttiness over a robust, full-bodied brew with the sweetness of dates and figs. Perfect for those who normally put sugar in their coffee, many find it not needed to sweeten the Mediterranean flavors.
Maya Flavors
Organic roasted ramón seeds from Guatemala enrich coffee and chocolate flavors. This was created for the pure coffee drinkers who do not want any sweetness in their brew. Hence, it again cuts down the mouth of sugar. This is a big plus.
Dark roasted body with a clean and sweet flavor is preferred by those who enjoy the bitter profile of not sweet coffee. Maya Chai appeals to those who enjoy a vibrant, spicy brew with more robust depth than tea. I already feel the nice taste.
Gluten-Free Dandelion Flavors
Organic roasted dandelion root, the new detox herb, makes replacement of barley to create gluten-free Teeccino with a bit more different bitterness that might be felt through dandelion roots. Among the 8 Teeccino Dandelion flavors to choose from, you’ll find both Maya and Mediterranean versions. Just look for either dates, figs and almonds especially when you prefer brew sweet and nutty or select those flavors with roasted ramón seeds for a dark roast.
Teeccino’s Dandelion flavors are again gluten free and they are totally barley free. Like Teeccino’s Boutique flavors, they are designed along the same lines as either Teeccino’s Mediterranean or Maya flavors. Featuring dandelion root, they may be felt as slightly more bitter than Teeccino’s barley-containing flavors due to the combined bitterness of chicory and dandelion roots.
This whole set of ingredients prove that this coffee substitute is awesome and worth trying. You can be sure of the effectiveness that you take from coffee, but omit all the negative side effects. Personally, I recommend this product.
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#3
Chicory Root Roasted Granules
This substance is another great option to choose as a coffee substance. It goes without saying that it is caffeine-free as the roasted root granules are used as an alternative to coffee. Another thing is that is contains no pesticides, all natural.
But first, let us figure out its initial benefit. Chicory root is one of the best natural sources of a prebiotic named inulin. Chicory is also a crucial source of antioxidants. Another great health benefit stems from the ability of chicory root to stimulate the digestion. Want more? Here: it brings support to liver, fact very well-known in the non-conventional medicine, but supported by scientific research.
On the taste side, chicory is one of the most popular substitutes for coffee. It gives an up to total dissolved solids or TDS, resulting in your healthy organism. On the negative side, too much of it will overpower other ingredients in the blend. Well, it happens not in case of Chicory root consumptions, but any product, let’s admit it.
Anyhow, you can enjoy it imaging it is a coffee as it is dense and soft at the same time.
I can introduce the complete list Amazon offered, cause believe me, I like trying those interesting tastes and telling you what is what. But let me stop it here and pass to other substitutes that are more popular and are consumed by thousands.[/productbox]
Benefits To Drinking Tea
I will list some teas that can be pretty tasty and give you the same flow of the energy as coffee does. I know, I told you I used to be a coffee person, but I stopped as my health stands as a priority, so I passed to teas. Overall, there are lots of pluses if you do so to reduce the harm coffee brings to your organism. Here are some of them:
Whiter teeth
I will list some teas that can be pretty tasty and give you the same flow of the energy as coffee does. I know, I told you I used to be a coffee person, but I stopped as my health stands as a priority, so I passed to teas. Overall, there are lots of pluses if you do so to reduce the harm coffee brings to your organism. Here are some of them:
Reduced cholesterol
Coffee stimulates the rise of cholesterol as it contains compounds called cafestol and kahweol, which could up your risk of heart attack and stroke. Isn’t this a weighty reason to switch from coffee to tea?
Better sleep
Because coffee has more caffeine than tea does, you could find that you sleep better at night with less of the stimulant. In fact, many people claim that the number of cups of coffee do not matter, they will sleep as an angel, but no, guys, this has negative effect on your brain.
Lower risk of diabetes
Numerous studies have shown that coffee could prevent Type 2 diabetes, but scientists forgot to mention why. Some think it is because coffee increases proteins that have sex hormones, the ones like testosterone and estrogen. These hormones help to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, while others say it’s because coffee increases insulin sensitivity. In case of tea, this risk will decrease for sure.
Better mood
There is a common truth that coffee can improve mood and lower the risk of depression. However, some recent study has found out that adults who drank two to four cups of caffeinated coffee a day had about half the risk of suicide as those who drank little or no coffee. Facts speak louder!
Are you convinced about swapping from coffee to tea? Great! Then, let us see what teas are better to help you forget about coffee.
The Best Tea as a Coffee Substitute
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#1 Green Tea –
The Well Known Saver
Perhaps the most famous of all coffee alternatives, green tea is loaded with bioactive compounds. But what it makes so special? On the whole, tea contains polyphenols that have effects like reducing inflammation and help to fight cancer.
When it comes to green tea, it is about 30 percent polyphenols by weight, including large amounts of a catechin called EGCG. While catechins are natural antioxidants that prevent cell damage, as well as bring forward other benefits.
Another thing: green tea contains a small amount of caffeine, but also has L-theanine, a beneficial amino acid that helps you keep concentrating. This is what makes green tea such a great beverage for studying, waking up or even winding down.
Other factors that make green tea stand out among other beverages is its compounds that improve brain function lowering the risk of getting Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
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#2
Turmeric Tea
Naturally Caffeine Free
Turmeric tea is one popular form of consuming turmeric that can serve you as a refreshing beverage. It has a unique but subtle flavor. Turmeric tea leaves have strong anti-inflammatory properties can help ease inflammation and swelling for those with arthritis.
Besides, it reduces any sort of pain. My favorite part of this tea is that it boosts immune system. Want to learn more? This tea seems to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer potential. Many cultures with long life span regularly consume turmeric tea. They usually include it in their everyday diet and consume on a daily basis. In the long run, they live longer. Bingo!
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#3
Ginger Tea – Non GMO & relieves Indigestion
Ginger tea is a perfect cure when you catch a cold, you just need one little sip at least. It has high volume of Vitamin C, magnesium and other minerals, that not only help you to switch from coffee to tea, but also bring forward a set of benefits.
Ginger tea helps with inflammation and can ease anyone’s joint problems. You can even rub it on the skin directly. This magic tea is also a great digestive aid, and possibly will help you to eat fewer calories. Take this into account, as coffee has the opposite effect.
Ginger tea is good for nausea and motion sicknesses. And if you do not feel like drinking it for its taste, I recommend you to add peppermint, honey or lemon to mask the taste of the ginger.
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#4
Peppermint Tea – The Best Seasonal Drink
Many people find this beverage more than pleasant for its strong flavor, and no caffeine.
I am also a fan of mint, so I drink this tea from time to time. Peppermint tea, can not only be used as a way to deal with fever, but also help out with nausea and digestive issues. My personal favorite effect of peppermint tea is its ability to make your skin smoother and soft. Peppermint’s cooling properties can be very soothing. The menthol it contains will conversely cool your body down internally, leaving you very relaxed.
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#5
Licorice Tea – Perfect For Anytime Of The Day
Licorice tea has a wide variety of benefits that coffee does not have. Not a surprise, isn’t it? One use is for treating sore throats and to reduce body fat. But be cautious as this tea has stronger effects, hence daily consumption of it may be not reasonable, even can interfere with some medications.
Another thing to consider is that licorice tea may help to ease your cravings of sugar, as it has a fairly sweet taste. You aim at two targets: less sugar and no caffeine. The sweetener found in licorice tea (a natural sweetener) is called glycyrrhizin. This is more than 40 times sweeter than ordinary sugar, and helps to explain why people can’t seem to get enough of this warm treat.
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#6
Rooibos Tea -100% Pure
Rooibos tea is a good alternative to coffee and even to green tea. Wonder why? As it is absolutely caffeine-free and low in tannins. Tannins often get a bad reputation because they interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, like iron.
Unlike black and green tea, rooibos tea contains no oxalic acid. Consuming high amounts of oxalic acid can increase the risk of kidney stones. This means this tea is a good option for anyone who wants to give up on a lot of substances found in coffee and black tea combined. This is probably the best option to drink every now and then instead of other beverages. But everything depends on the taste, like it or not.[/productbox]
Tips to help you kick the coffee
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More Information
After reading all these facts, you feel like tea is not your one-and-only? Well, I have one more thing to offer. Not a coffee, not a tea, just coconut water. Coconut water is made from the clear liquid inside of green coconuts. You should not confuse it with coconut milk, which is made from the water and the flesh inside of a mature coconut. Over 95 percent of coconut water is water. Refreshing and tasty, for me at least!
Coconut water is better drunk after workouts or at lunchtime, as it is not usually a morning beverage. But that does not mean you can’t try and make it the one. If you have a crazy night out and consume a few too many drinks, coconut water can also be a great way to ease your stomach the next morning.
It is low in calories, heaven for those who want to cut down some kilograms if consumed regularly. Coconut water has less sugar and carbohydrates than most juices. It also has more minerals and electrolytes like sodium and potassium. Some people even apply coconut water onto your skin, and it is included in a wide variety of shampoos, conditioners and skin creams.
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Summary
I know that getting used to coffee, especially in the mornings is pretty easy, but in the long run of your life you just notice that even one day without it may wreck you down. So, you should consider switching from coffee to another beverages without losing the feeling you drink something special. I have tried many-many options, you already know, but in case of you, it is subjective. Start trying out this list of coffee substitutes, teas and other drinks and finally come across to your favorite. Believe me, your body will say thanks later!
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8 Comments
If anyone is going to substitute coffee with tea, i highly suggest oolong. I’m quite surprised it’s not on this list. Oolong is very refreshing despite the strong taste. It’s a very refreshing coffee to say the least and it always feels like I’m about to eat at a chinese resto everytime haha~! Very recommendable to substitute coffee with oolong. You won’t regret it!
It’s really hard to let go of coffee when you’ve been drinking it… well, ever since you could remember. I started very early on drinking coffee and i love candies with coffee flavor. Sadly, my doctor told me to lay off it completely because of my acidity. IT HURTS EACH TIME. I decided to let go of my coffee addiction and began sticking to tea. Ginger tea has helped my tummy calm down and relax. TRUE STORY BRO
i think coffee is 50/50 when it comes to benefits. It’s not all just bad. it’s not all disadvantages. I think you put the coffee in a very negative light. What about weightloss? I think it’s worth mentioning that the coffee is a great aide to losing weight. Anyway, as long as you are not going to add so much to your coffee, i think coffee is a pretty harmless drink. I think you can say that not everyone can tolerate coffee. I know some people who get really bad palpitations whenever they drink coffee. If this is the case, then it is really bad for them. again, it is important not to generalize.
I live in the Philippines and one of the alternative coffee that my mom’s grandma would prepare is to “roast” rice as dark as you would like and then boil the rice. My mom always said that the rice “coffee” tastes as good as the common brand of coffee that we would buy. My mom no longer prepares it because we make enough money now to get actual coffee, but she says she misses it sometimes brings a breath of nostalgia to her. Thanks for sharing these coffee alternatives! They’re pretty cool, I think I might wanna get one soon, for a change.
Never expected to like the Dandy blend. I bought that as a joke and as a way to impress my friends. We like quirky stuff and when I saw the dandelion coffee, i instantly loved the novelty of it. You are right, it has that robust flavors and i’ve noticed how i look a lot less tired ever since drinking it. my coworkers noticed it only after two weeks of drinking it. It just tastes weird but i like weird stuff so it might not be for everyone.
I LOOOOOOOOOOOOVE PEPPERMINT TEA! Ever since I had to stop drinking caffeine, I’ve always drank peppermint tea in the morning. Some people say it’s like washing your mouth with toothpaste, but I don’t see it that way. It’s so refreshing to drink and it’s so good for my tummy. For my usual peppermint tea, I drink Twinnings, the one with green tea. I feel like i hit two birds with that one. Can you feature other brands of tea? These aren’t that accessible from where I live. Thx
I got drunk on new years day and had to work the next day. I felt so dehydrated so I didn’t drink coffee. I brought with me a liter of coconut water to work. I discovered just how effective it was… i didnt have to take an aspirin to solve my big bad headache. but i wanted to add that the reason why it worked so well with my dehydration post-alcohol drinking was because it had enough electrolytes to replace those that i had lost. but even though, i wouldn’t make it my early morning drink. It just doesn’t feel right. Hahaha!
Oh boy! Better be a bit more careful next time it sounds like 😉