It’s time to end unhealthy choices, and instead, opt for healthier beverages to help you jumpstart the day. In this article, we will introduce you to caffeine-free energy-boosting drinks along with an easy-to-make meal that will also wake you up in the mornings.

Unsweetened Organic Raw Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder contains a wide array of phytonutrients and other minerals that can offer a powerful boost of energy. It is credited as a stimulant due to its Theobromine content, which helps individuals stay awake for longer periods of time. The best part is that even though it is packed with nutrients, it remains low in fat content.

Organic cocoa powder also offers a range of polyphenols that provide the body with an essential dose of antioxidants. These polyphenols also help with boosting brain function that often results in consumers feeling more energized. (1,2)

Green Tea

Decaffeinated green tea, in particular, is an excellent alternative to coffee. By initiating and progressively speeding the thermogenesis process, this beverage helps promote weight loss and is associated with a light and refreshing feeling. (3) 

It also has a significant effect on energy expenditure. Due to its high L-Theanine and Epigallatocatechin Gallate content, it may significantly enhance cognitive performance. (4) 

There are a variety of green teas to choose from, but Matcha tea has surfaced as a true competitor in the food industry. It offers a lot more catechins and polyphenols than regular green tea. (5)

Probiotics

Probiotic blends such as yogurt can significantly impact your energy metabolism. (6) The unique blend of microbiomes in this blend can further assist with harvesting energy and preserving gut integrity. Thus, they are considered to be edibles that promote a healthy host-bacteria interaction and prevent obesity. (7)

Probiotics take the anti-inflammatory route to sidetrack major depressive disorder, or MDD, that is associated with low energy levels and depleted motivation or drive. (8)

Avoiding processed foods and opting for probiotic blends instead will surely do you good. Probiotics enhance energy levels by aiding with digestion and the development of B-vitamins that are associated with energy metabolism.

Leafy Green Smoothies

This might not sound like the most exotic drink ever, but you can always spice it up by adding delicious and wholesome ingredients–like pineapples, kiwi, or a dash of cinnamon.

Kale, spinach, and celery are loaded with antioxidants, nutrients, and minerals. They help in the absorption of essential elements like Calcium. (9) They are also rich in nitrates that are typically used by athletes and sports players to boost their endurance and exercise performance. (10). All in all, these leafy green vegetables promote long-term health and are great for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. (11).

H2O

You read that right. This underrated drink is what makes up at least 60% of your body weight. It serves as the universal solvent and keeps your brain alert. Hydration is of utmost importance, especially for those who wish to stay awake when they are tired.

Dehydration negatively impacts brain performance and explains why those who experience it feel exhausted and lethargic over time. (12). Drinking water throughout the day is perhaps the easiest way to keep yourself alert and prompt. Starting your day with a glass of water will instantly make you feel more awake and refreshed.

Nicotinamide Riboside

Have this with regular water to help you get your day going. Nicotinamide Riboside, or Niagen, is converted into NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide). This conversion enhances NAD levels in the body (13, 14) 

The amount of NAD is directly proportional to ATP production. Hence, the release of energy is enhanced with the daily supplementation of Nicotinamide Riboside. This supplement is an alternative to Vitamin B3 and induces weight loss by speeding up the metabolism via thermogenesis. (15). Nicotinamide Riboside is also said to activate sirtuins, which has a key role in metabolic control and preventing aging.

A Quick Meal that Also Boosts Energy

Chia Seed Acai Bowl

Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, fibers, proteins, Zinc, and Manganese. The inclusion of several B-vitamins in these miracle seeds is what gives you the type of energy that lasts for hours. Due to their high nutritional value and health benefits, you can have chia seeds atop any toast, or add them to your breakfast smoothies. (16) One of the best ways to nosh on chia seeds, however, is in the form of an Acai bowl.

You can customize your chia seed acai bowl the way you prefer it. Mix it together with some greek yogurt, your favorite nuts (walnuts and pine nuts have great nutritional value), and a few drops of stevia with vanilla essence. Turn it up a notch by adding your favorite fruits and there you have it–the most nutritious meal to give you that energy boost you need in the AM. 

Thanks to its high fiber content, this quick meal will keep you satiated as well.

Energy For Eons

Healthy eating habits can be challenging to adopt once you’re used to having certain foods and beverages in your diet. Sodas and excess caffeine have dominated the lives of many–especially for the purpose of boosted energy. Although it’s tough to break, it’s never too late to turn your eating habits around for the better. 

Dietary modifications are necessary, but so are the ones that influence our lifestyles. Your routine habits impact your performance and mood more than you can imagine. 

Need to add more healthier sources of energy to your diet? Take our quiz to unveil a personalized, energy-enhancing nootropics formula that’s perfect to take in the mornings.