Caffeine’s main effect on the body is an increased temporary sense of wakefulness and alertness, but it can also cause many uncomfortable symptoms.
Particularly the comedown from a high consumption of caffeine such as a strong coffee or two, or energy drinks, can cause you to feel low or on edge – and definitely a lot more tired than you were to begin with.
The regular consumption of caffeine has been linked to common problems such as incontinence, insomnia, indigestion, and headaches. It has also been linked to an increased risk of heart attacks among young adults.
While there is also a huge list of reasons why caffeine may be good for you, here are some alternatives for those not willing to take the risk.
1. Maca.
Maca or Peruvian ginseng, is claimed to produce energy and stamina. It’s hugely nutritious and contains many key vitamins and minerals. It’s been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as increasing your libido and enhancing your overall mood. And can be added to drinks and cereals from its powder form.
2. Matcha.
Similar to Maca, Matcha is known mostly for its caffeine content – just one teaspoon of the stuff contains twice as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, while also providing all the benefits of a potent green tea.
The difference with matcha is the slow release into the body it brings, meaning one cup could carry you through an entire day. Matcha is becoming more and more popular and is available in plenty of coffee shops in latte or tea form.
3. Supplements.
Unless your diet is rich in super green veggies like kale and spinach, it’s hard to get enough B12 or Iron. B12 is often prescribed to people to boost mood, energy, concentration, mental function, and the immune system.
Iron is needed for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide and without it you can feel weak, faint, and often tired. Getting a blood test is a great way to find out if you are low in B12 or iron, if you notice you’ve been using energy drinks as a booster for these symptoms.
4. Isotonic drinks.
Typically used to help people rehydrate, and no stranger to hungover college students, isotonic drinks such as Lucozade are high in simple carbohydrates and offer a fast and efficient source of energy.
Isotonic drinks contain similar concentrations of salt and sugar, as is found in the human body. These sports drinks also often include electrolytes (minerals that you lose from sweating). You can also buy isotonic powder and add it to your own water.
For those worried about their caffeine intake, The ‘CaffeineInformer’ website provides information for the level of caffeine in drinks, comparing them to espressos as a unit of measurement. They also provide a calculator for your maximum recommended dose of caffeine a day.
With all the harmful effects caffeine can have, It’s definitely worth looking into trying new ways to boost your energy, that work in tandem with your body rather than as an enforcer of energy that gives a shock to the system.