Coffee addiction? Prevent headaches, anxiety, hypertension with these 7 healthy alternatives

Herbal or tisanes are devoid of caffeine and bring an array of health advantages. (Image: Canva)

It is proven that coffee addiction is harmful, especially to the person’s physical and mental health. Studies show that overconsumption of coffee leads to addiction to caffeine, a drug that stimulates the central nervous system. It also causes many side effects such as anxiety, agitation, and headaches, especially if the patient has not had his or her regular dose of coffee. Excessive coffee intake also increases the heart rate and blood pressure, which predisposes an individual to heart disease over a prolonged period. Also, the ’ mocha’ fetish in most people tends to interfere with their sleeping patterns and hence lead to tiredness, frustration, and low work output.

Aside from this, caffeine is also a diuretic, which means it can lead to dehydration, and its corrosive properties can promote disorders such as acid indigestion and stomach upset. If you feel you need to stop caffeine cravings for any given reason, you will find some healthy drink options that work as a cleansing, and invigorating and are quite simple to make at home.

Radhika Mehta, Mumbai-based dietician and owner of MochaMix, says that these drinks possess health advantages and help you come out of caffeine addiction without compromising on the taste.

Herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus)

• Herbal or tisanes are devoid of caffeine and bring an array of health advantages. Chamomile eases tension, peppermint is great for the stomach, and hibiscus is packed with healthy compounds.
• How to make: Boil water and pour over 1-2 spoons of dried chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus. Allow to stand for 5-10 minutes, pour into a clean cup, and serve warm or cold. Honey or lemon can be added for taste enhancement.

• It’s a sizzling golden milk enhanced with ambiguous spice and a traditional cauldron.
• How to make: Start by heating 1 cup of milk with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric, a pinch of black pepper, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Add 1/4 teaspoon of little ginger if desired and simmer on low for 5 minutes. Finish the mixture off with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to sweeten.

• Rather than the typical energy-boosting attributes of most green teas, matcha produces calming effects with its L-theanine component.
• How to make: Place a tea bowl and sift in 1 teaspoon of matcha powder. Add 1 tablespoon of hot water and whisk until a froth is formed. Then introduce more warm water or milk, 1/2 cup. Add honey for sweetness if needed.

Lemon-water

• You can cut a lemon into slices or wedges and add them to water. This is a simple and hydrating drink that rejuvenates the body with the refreshing benefits of vitamin C.
• How to prepare: Squeeze half a lemon into a glass that has warm or cold water. Mix the contents and then add, optionally, a pinch of sea salt with two mint leaves. It gives maximum hydration and is perfect for sleep.

• Chicory Coffee has a flavour similar to coffee but has no caffeine content.
• How to prepare: get a cup of water pour it in a pot and boil it. After boiling, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of roasted chicory root powder or granules in it. Allow it to steep for five minutes, then strain it out and drink. You can include milk or sweetener for a creamier texture like regular coffee.

• Green smoothies are full of vitamins and minerals that give energy naturally.
• How to prepare: Take a cup of water or almond milk, add one cup of spinach or kale, half a banana, half a cucumber, and a handful of berries, and blend. Blend until the mixture is smooth and have an energising, nutritious drink.

• Rooibos has no caffeine, which makes it suitable to replace coffee
• How to prepare: Take 1-2 teaspoons of rooibos leaves and brew with boiling water for 5-7 minutes. Strain and serve hot or allow to cool and serve with ice. Add honey, milk, or lemon to enhance the flavour.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.