Caffeine lovers unite! September 29 is National Coffee Day! While the lines at Starbucks and Coffee Bean may be extra long during this holiday, what about the rest of us of who (gasp) don’t like coffee? While coffee seems to be a universal obsession, its health benefits are questionable. Whether you’re tired, need energy or just need something to satisfy your caffeine addiction, it can be beneficial to know other healthy alternatives to coffee. Aside from having a coffee addiction, maybe you can alternate a new one as well!

1. Tea

According to a Medical News Today article, tea is the second most consumed beverage, following water. With a myriad of types (e.g., green tea, black tea, white tea and oolong tea), each tea has the same health benefits. Tea not only offers a great source of antioxidants, but helps with hydration and has fewer calories than other caffeinated drinks. Studies have shown that it is able to alleviate stress, enhance brain power, decreases the risk for cancer and improves your cardiovascular health.  (http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/292160.php)

2. Natural Smoothies

Sure, you may want to start your morning off with a cup of coffee, but have you ever considered a healthy smoothie to jumpstart your day? While it’s best to avoid high sugar content from places like Jamba Juice, it’s important to ensure the smoothie offers more nutrition than calories. Mixing fruit and nuts in smoothies are the best type, because they offer antioxidants, are high in protein and fiber.

3. Wheatgrass

While I’m not a fan of it, wheat grass is said to be one of the most natural energizer drinks. It is a natural juice that offers essential vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that are  imperative to good health.

4. Lemon/Fruit infused Water

Adding lemon or fruit to your water (I recommend Watermelon or Strawberries) offers a different taste to the same water we drink on a daily basis. Sure drinking a caffeinated drink jumpstarts your energy, but what happens when that energy wears off? By drinking an infused water, you’re not only able to still get your necessary intake of water, but a unique twist on its taste.