I’m a bit of a casual coffee connoisseur – the warmth, the coziness, the bitterness, depth. It’s a relaxing French Pressed cup on the couch to start the day, a reward after a good workout, a companion for a productive work day and maybe even the perfect compliment to a treat at night.
While there are many known benefits of (black) coffee, if you’re a regular drinker, you know the caffeine fix is awesome…until it’s not. Over consumption can mean the jitters, irritability, anxiousness, a burning stomach, taxed adrenals and even a racing heartbeat.
Armed with a desire to still experience the good of coffee while not having to deal with the not-so-good, I set out to find some coffee alternatives I could enjoy on days where I need more calm than crazy, an afternoon pick-me-up (and still be able to sleep later) or just want to enjoy a second (or fourth) cup after my full-loaded joe.
Here’s what I found.
1. Rasa
This company is humorously pretty witty and founded by a mom who wanted to drink coffee while nursing…but also wanted calm. Lowering my caffeine intake started very much the same way, so I really related to this story! Rasa Coffee has become a favorite and comes in three blends, some which do contain a bit of actual coffee mixed in for balance: Calm Energy, Lively Energy and Happy Energy. Dandelion root and roasted chicory give it that coffee flavor and ingredients like cacao and cinnamon make it extra delicious. What makes Rasa so nice, though, are the special adaptogenic herbs in it that actually benefit theadrenal system and help our bodies respond better to stress. WIN!
2. Dandy Blend
This blend is made from just five ingredients: extracts of barley, rye, dandelion, chicory and beet roots. Dandy Blend has a bit of natural sweetness and can even help ease stomach upset. Just stir into hot water and you’re good to go!
3. Four Sigmatic
This dark roast organic and fair trade coffee is mixed with mushrooms (!) – specifically, lions mane (a type of mushroom, not actual lion hair ;)) and chaga mushroom. The lions mane is considered some of the best brain food for focus and chaga supports the immune system. Together, Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee supports productivity, focus, and creativity.
—
Each of these options are full-bodied and delish on their own for those who enjoy black coffee like myself. For a treat, though, they can be blended with your favorite milk, creamer (unsweetened almond milk + coconut cream Nutpods are my go-to), coconut oil, or any other goodness you enjoy.
So, I’m curious – have you tried a coffee alternative you love? Share it with us by replying here!
Cheers to caffeine…in a calm, adrenal-supporting, still-can-sleep-later way. 🙂
Jess + Team Valeo