The 3 p.m.-ish slowdown is real, so if you’re looking for a healthy option that won’t keep you up at night, here are some possibilities worth a shot.
- Decaf — It does contain a very small amount of caffeine, about 3 milligrams per cup, but still has most of the health benefits of regular coffee, including lowered risk of diabetes, better heart health and improving brain function, though it may fall short of caffeinated coffee in this last category.
- Green tea — Its caffeine content is considerably lower than coffee, and it contains more antioxidants than other teas because it doesn’t oxidize during preparation. It has been linked to lower cholesterol, reduced blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer.
- Chicory coffee — Brewed from the chicory root, it has no caffeine and tastes very similar to conventional coffee. It has high concentrations of inulin, a soluble fiber that aids the digestive process and helps with weight loss and regulating diabetes.
- Kombucha — This fashionable concoction includes fermented black tea, bacteria, yeast and sugar. This creates a symbiotic colony between the yeast and bacteria that produces probiotics and antioxidants with caffeine levels comparable to decaf.
- Green smoothie — When made with plenty of dark leafy greens, including superfoods like spinach, kale, flaxseed and acai, smoothies are a real energy boost as well as an uncommon source of nutrients.
- Golden milk — This is a traditional Indian beverage made of milk (or a nondairy alternative), turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, black pepper and an optional drop of honey, all warmed in a pan. These spices have strong anti-inflammatory effects and also boost brain function.
- Water — It’s usually very available, it hydrates, and it’s the basis of all life on this Earth. Including a lemon slice adds flavor and tons of vitamin C.