What we consume in the morning is very important, as we rely on it to give us the energy to keep us going all day long. Too often, we start our days with sugary energy drinks or sweetened coffee beverages, which are unhealthy and cause us to crash later in the day.
Instead of all that sugar, try these four filling morning drinks that will give you the energy and strength you need to face the whole day—without the crash! Remember, for best results, use organic ingredients whenever you can.
Matcha Green Tea Smoothie
This smoothie features matcha—a powdered form of green tea which is higher in antioxidants than any other kind, and has also been shown to boost focus and memory. Like all green tea, matcha contains caffeine, but unlike coffee, doesn’t leave you with the nervousness and jitters that coffee sometimes does.
The addition of banana and almond provides some healthy fats and nutrients to keep you feeling full and satisfied!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium banana
- 4 ice cubes
- ¾ to 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
Directions:
Put all ingredients in an electric blender or mixer in the order listed above. Blend until everything is combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Makes 1-2 servings.
‘Bulletproof’ Coffee
Bulletproof coffee, if you haven’t heard of it, is the combination of organic coffee, grass-fed butter and either organic coconut oil or MCT oil—a blend of coconut and palm oil. In addition to the health benefits found in black coffee itself, adding the butter and oil provides important nutrients, makes you feel fuller longer, and prevents the dreaded mid-afternoon coffee crash.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups of freshly brewed organic coffee
- 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut or MCT oil
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter from grass-fed cows
Directions:
Brew the coffee. Put all ingredients in a blender and blend until a thick layer of foam forms on top. Makes 1 serving.
Yerba Mate Chai
Like matcha, the yerba mate plant delivers an energizing dose of caffeine without the unwanted side effects that plain coffee can cause in some individuals. This recipe blends chai spices, and healthy almond milk for an energizing and filling morning beverage perfect for the coldest days of winter!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon masala chai spice blend (make sure there are no additives)
- 1 tablespoon loose yerba mate tea
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 cup water
- Raw honey to taste
Directions:
Bring spices and water to a boil in a small saucepan. After it reaches a boil, turn off the stove and let it steep for about 15 minutes. Add the almond milk and bring to a boil again. Remove again, add the yerba mate and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes. Add a small amount of honey and strain the mixture into a large mug or glass. Makes 1 serving.
Super-Green Coconut Chia Juice
This simple, caffeine-free combination of coconut water, chia seeds, and spinach is super healthy and super refreshing. It’ll ensure you get the recommended daily amount of fiber, omega-3s, and many other nutrients. It will also help with digestion and decrease bloating.
Ingredients:
- 6 ounces of coconut water
- 1 tablespoon of chia seeds
- 1 handful spinach
Directions:
Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, about 1-2 minutes. Makes 1 serving.
So, if you’ve been feeling a bit sluggish in the morning, or are sick of feeling a drop in your afternoon energy, try out one of these four drinks to feel steadily energized throughout the day.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.justonecookbook.com/recipes/green-tea-smoothie
http://www.naturallivingideas.com/10-amazing-benefits-of-matcha-green-tea
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/top-15-healthiest-diy-drinks-ever
http://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Debloating-Chia-Seed-Supergreens-Drink-Recipe-21769997
http://www.insonnetskitchen.com/yerba-mate-chai
