5 Alternatives to your Usual Morning Cup o' Joe

When the dreaded alarm clock starts buzzing in the morning, only one thing is on your mind … I need coffee and I need it FAST. 
Maybe, like me, you have become too dependent on your morning cup (or three) and you are looking for a new way to help you wake up.

Perhaps you’re one of those people who doesn’t love the taste, but still can’t get past 8 a.m. without your morning ritual of coffee loaded with cream and sugar.
Or … maybe you’re hesitant to give up your beloved morning beverage but are willing to test out other options.
Try these suggestions to kick start your day in a whole new way!
1. Green Tea 
Give me the facts: 

• A cup of green tea has almost as much caffeine as a cup of coffee
• It can be consumed hot or iced, both options equally delicious

Why should I drink this: 

• Green tea is packed with antioxidants and other health benefits
• You get energy, without the coffee jitters

2. Wheatgrass juice 
Give me the facts: 

• Some call this a liquid shot of natural energy
• If you (are one of the many) who doesn’t fancy the taste then try adding it to a smoothie or protein drink!

Why should I drink this:

• This drink is packed with essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients
• It is easily digested and is absorbed into your body quickly
• This means you get your morning boost quickly

3. Lemon water
Give me the facts: 

• This tasty alternative is good is hot or cold water
• While caffeine from coffee often wears off leaving you feeling drowsy all over again, this will perk you right back up!
• Use the juice of half a lemon and a little freshly grated zest. (Add mint for flavor)

Why should I drink this:

• Lemon water boosts immune system, helps you loose weight, aids in digestion, balances pH, clears skin, freshens breath, and is even said to help improve your overall mood. Who wouldn’t want to try it!

4. Smoothie with nuts 
Give me the facts:

• Add almonds, sunflower, pumpkin seeds, or whatever you desire to your fruit smoothie and blend!
• A smoothie is easy to take with you as you run out the door to work or to school.
• Not only is is nutritious and delicious, but is filling.

Why should I drink this:

• This drink gives you loads of energy and keeps you full until lunch time
• It is high in protein and fiber, stimulating your blood sugar levels

5. Dark chocolate 
Give me the facts:

• Although I am not suggesting you start off your day with chocolate, this is perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up!
• Caffeine is found naturally in cocoa beans
• The darker the chocolate the higher the caffeine

Why should I (eat) this:

• Not only delicious, but packed with health benefits
• There is about 12 mg of caffeine in 1 oz of dark chocolate
• TRY THIS: A Hershey’s Special Dark Chocolate bar has 31 milligrams (almost as much as a can of coke!)

This article was written by Joanie Sanders, coffee fanatic since childhood and staff writer for hottytoddy.com. She can be reached at jgsander@go.olemiss.edu