Java Alternatives: Healthy Beverages That Will Make You Forget About Coffee -

Can’t seem to give up your morning cup of java? You’re not alone. Caffeine is a highly addictive chemical that can have negative effects on your body and brain chemistry. If you can’t go more than a few days without coffee, you probably are addicted to it. Withdrawal from caffeine can leave you feeling sleepy, irritable, and foggy-headed. Fortunately, there are many delicious alternatives to coffee that will help get you out of bed — and maybe even on the right side. Below are four drinks that will give you a morning boost without the dreaded caffeine crash.

Green Smoothie

If you dread mornings, a green smoothie may be just what you need to get your day started off right. Green smoothies contain spinach, which is packed mood-elevating nutrients like folate and magnesium. Folate encourages the production of mood-boosting transmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. In fact, people who consume the most folate are the least likely to suffer from depression, according to a 2012 study.

To make a green smoothie, simply blend together 2 cups of raw, organic spinach with 1/2 cup of frozen organic blueberries or blackberries and a slice of organic ginger root. Ideal types of blenders for this would be a bullet or countertop blenders. Blueberries and blackberries contain anthocyanins, the antioxidant which stimulates dopamine production in the brain. The ginger root will sharpen your memory and help you feel more focused. For extra sweetness and health-boosting benefits, try adding a teaspoon of raw, organic honey.

Tangy Citrus Morning Elixir

This healthy morning drink contains two simple ingredients: lemons and carrots. Numerous studies have shown lemons to be an excellent morning pick-me-up. Not only does this citrus fruit improve digestion, but it also fights the bacteria that cause morning breath. Lemons are also high in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and aids in liver cleansing.

Consuming carrots strengthens the immune system and helps your body ward off illness. Carrots are high in antioxidants such as carotenoids, which are essential for mood health. A recent study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that carrots can also improve brain function and assist in mood regulation. To make this drink, simply toss one peeled lemon, and four or five organic carrots into your blender, and enjoy.

Turmeric and Lemon Morning Elixir

This immune system-boosting, anti-inflammatory tea contains turmeric, which is known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties. Turmeric cures yeast infections combats intestinal parasites, prevents cancer from spreading and is believed to be effective in slowing the deterioration of the brain caused by Alzheimer’s disease. The key to turmeric’s power lies in curcumin, the chemical that gives the spice its distinctive orange-yellow color. Curcumin has been found to contain neuroprotective properties that improve mood and relieve depression.

The Detox Delight also contains lemon, ginger, and organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar, which can help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diarrhea, and Crohn’s disease. This morning drink can also reduce your risk of heart attack, help reduce pain and inflammation and fight free radicals in the body.

To make the tea, you’ll need:

8 oz. boiling water
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Juice of 1/2 organic lemon
1 cup unaltered, organic apple cider vinegar
1-inch fresh ginger root, pressed
1 teaspoon raw, organic honey

Add the ginger and turmeric to the water and allow the liquid to steep for 10 minutes. Next, add the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Pour the moisture into a mug, stir, and drink. Learn from The Alternative Daily about more of the benefits of this amazing coffee alternative.

Pineapple Metabolism Booster

If maintaining a healthy weight is your goal, the pineapple metabolism booster is the drink for you. This simple three-ingredient drink combines pineapple juice with unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar and raw organic honey. The unfiltered cider vinegar helps you lose weight by suppressing the appetite and aiding in fat loss. It also alkalizes the body, giving your metabolism a boost.

Pineapple contains bromelain, a combination of enzymes that digest protein and flush toxins from the body. Finally, the raw organic honey adds sweetness and extra immune-strengthening properties to this nutritious morning elixir. To make the drink, blend together 4 ounces of organic pineapple juice, 2 teaspoons of unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of organic raw honey.

Finding a replacement for coffee that you love is the key to loosening caffeine’s grip on you. The above recipes will keep you alert, focused, and energized as you make the switch from coffee to a healthier alternative.

[info_box type=”pale_box”]Zoe Parkinson used to have such poor eating habits, but a new years resolution and the discovery of a clean eating course changed her lifestyle forever. She now shares her new-found passion around the internet in her articles.[/info_box]