Skip coffee, 5 caffeine alternatives to KICK START your morning

Worried about the caffeine in your morning cup of Joe? Is your wake-up cuppa giving you the jitters?

Fun fact: the quality of the air we breathe is critically important to our overall wellbeing.

Studies have shown that oxygen is essential for optimal brain activity, and oxygen supplementation can improve mental performance, boost energy levels and relieve stress, as well as alleviating the symptoms of insomnia and hangovers. Hence we recommend Boost Oxygen SA, an importer and distributer of portable, lightweight, 95% pure oxygen canisters.

5 TIPS: how to get energy in the morning

Rooibos tea and other herbal infusions

South Africa’s favourite export is renowned for its ability to cure headaches, help with insomnia and boost the immune system. It’s completely free from caffeine and is actually classified as a herb, as opposed to a tea.

Wheatgrass, of course, is tough to beat when it comes to natural energy supplements. But you either love it or loathe it, so look for the best method of delivery to suite your tastebugs, either straight as a shot or in effervescent format.

Vitamin B

An absolutely essential ingredient in your diet, B vitamins help your body metabolise the foods you eat, which means they are essential for the production of energy. A vitamin B deficiency can cause fatigue and poor concentration. Foods rich in B vitamins include lean meats, nuts, seeds, eggs and fortified grains. Adding these to your diet can help boost your energy and replace your usual dose of caffeine.

Protein

A protein rich breakfast is a great replacement for a cup of coffee and is worth the time it takes to prepare. Increasing the amount of protein in your diet can help boost your mood, improve your concentration skills, supply you with energy and maintain your energy levels. Think eggs and bacon, smoked salmon and cheese…or a delicious omelette combining all of the above!

Aqua de vida

Yes, water is life. Dehydration can cause a serious lack of energy and fatigue, so an easy way to boost flagging or absent energy levels is to down a glass of water or two and keep an eye on hydration levels throughout the day. If you want to boost this simple remedy, then add some lemon juice and zest and consume at will. Lemon water has been recognised for its power to detox and is packed with Vitamin C, boosting energy and improving your mood.

Pomegranate juice

Full of antioxidants and energisers, pure pomegranate juice is a delicious energy booster and easily incorporated into other beverage recipes. Either sip the juice on its own, or blend it with other fruit juices or in a smoothie.