But first, coffee.

Well, that’s what the National Coffee Association (NCA) says, anyway. Coffee consumption is the highest it’s been in two decades. This could have a lot to do with the multi-year rollercoaster the pandemic has led us on.

According to the NCA, 66% of Americans drink coffee each day. And they choose coffee more than water!

Why though? What’s drawing people to the earthy beverage? And making it so popular that Americans consume more than 517 million cups of coffee every day.

Rise and grind. Many people like a good cup of java for the jolt of energy it provides. It helps them wake up, focus and mentally prepare to take on the day ahead.

Habit and rituals. At least 84% of coffee drinkers are downing the goodness at breakfast. It has become a staple in their morning routine.

It’s tasty. It could be that you enjoy the earthy French press flavor of a Rwandan brew. Or you may savor the sweeter taste of a classic Columbian blend. With a little added sugar and cream, you have found you enjoy a few roasted beans. (It could also be you’ve found you enjoy a little coffee in your sugar and cream!)

To some, there’s nothing quite like a hot cup of regular coffee. But coffee is not for everyone. You may find you don’t enjoy the taste or can’t tolerate the side effects. It could also be that you want to switch it up.

Well, there are plenty of options for a coffee alternative.

Caffeine Options and Coffee Swaps

•   Kombucha:  A fermented tea rich in probiotics and antioxidants. Kombucha offers many similar health benefits as green tea. These can include reduced risk for heart disease and cancer, and better diabetes management.  

•   Mushroom Coffee: A blend of ground mushrooms and coffee beans. This creates a smooth, full bodied drink with a flavor similar to regular coffee. Health benefits can include improved immunity and protection against cancer and heart disease. Mushroom coffee has a lower caffeine content than regular coffee.

•   Lemon Water: No matter the temperature, lemon water is a great option to start your day! It gives that early morning hydration you need with a boost of antioxidants. Adding True Lemon citrus wedges to your cold or hot water is super easy. It’s the perfect way to get your lemon in without the hassle and mess of cutting and squeezing fresh lemons. It’s also calorie free with no artificial sweeteners or preservatives.

•   True Lemon Energy: Hydration with sustained energy from clean caffeine. If you want to cut coffee but still need a caffeine boost, this one is our favorite swap. No debate about this. Keep reading to find out why!

•   Brewed Tea: Tea is another beverage that is enjoyable either hot or cold, loose-leaf or in tea bags. And a variety of tea options are available with varying caffeine levels based on what your needs may be. Black tea like masala chai usually contains less caffeine than coffee, but this depends on how it’s brewed. Green tea has less caffeine, and herbal teas are generally caffeine-free. If you're looking for something with a kick, try yerba mate.

•   Ground Chicory: Chicory a plant root that contains the fiber-rich compound inulin. When ground and brewed it has a similar taste profile to coffee. However, it’s less bitter and has a slightly sweet flavor. It’s starting to be used in a variety of products because of its high fiber properties and potential health benefits. It’s also caffeine-free. So, this makes a great non-caffeinated coffee alternative.

• Golden Milk: The name of this traditional Indian drink comes from its golden hue. It is made with turmeric, which gives it a golden color. It has gained popularity in recent years for its potential health benefits. These include reducing joint pain, improving memory and mood, and protecting against some diseases.