Jobhop Jobhop's blog : Alternatives For Monday Morning Coffee Addicts

Are you a Monday morning coffee addict?

Do you have to have five cups of coffee just to get going on a Monday morning? If you do, you’re not the only one; it seems we’ve become a nation of coffee addicts. There are some people who you have to give a wide berth until you know they’ve drunk their morning espresso and metamorphosed into a normal human being. Many people believe that they can’t do their job without having a coffee, if forced to go without or heaven forbid Starbucks was closed, then they would be cranky all day and definitely wouldn’t be able to focus.

What do you do if you want to wean yourself off the coffee, but you still need that kick to get you going on a Monday morning?

Jobhop has spoken with three experts who have given us alternatives to the morning cup of coffee.

Sarah Jackson The Fermented Foody

Sarah suggests drinking herbal teas; but recommends avoiding fruity ones, because they either tend to add flavouring or are acidic and can damage tooth enamel in the long-term.

Her tip is: always carry some teabags, ones that include ayurvedic blends are her best choice.

Sarah says “Some teas are calming, some have energetic blends, so you can drink to suit the time of day and your energy levels” She also recommends plenty of water throughout the day.

Sarah Jackson www.thefermentedfoody.com

Kathy Payne KathyPayne.co.uk

Kathy recommends that we all skip the cup of Joe to get us moving in the morning. Get the strength on an Inca Warrior instead!

We asked Kathy, How?

Maca Powder was her answer

This so-called superfood powder has been used in Peru for stamina, energy, hormone balance and pepping up sex-drive for over 2000 years. It’s so nutrient-packed, it’s known as Peruvian Ginseng with calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, silica and zinc to help get you b-u-z-z-i-n-g.

It’s not a complete protein, but it’s about 10% protein by weight. And eating protein with each meal and snack balances blood sugar and energy levels. So no riding the roller-coaster from tired to wired.

Kathy says “Add it to smoothies and juices, yoghurt, porridge or desserts. I use a heaped teaspoon most days of an organic brand.” Maca Powder has been so widely used in Peru; it’s believed very safe to take in moderation for women and men. Be cautious if pregnant, breastfeeding or suffering a serious condition: always ask your doc if you’re unsure.

Kathy Payne - Women’s Natural Health and Fertility Coach

Calms haywire hormones and modern life madness.

Kathy Payne www.kathypayne.co.uk

Maureen Chadwick Diabetes Complete Care Ltd

Maureen gave up coffee years ago and hasn’t looked back since. She recommends using a “natural energy kit” by Neal’s Yard Organic Remedies. The kit is ideal for all those wanting an early morning boost without caffeine, especially if you have lots of social events over the summer months when we are more likely to want more energy and to look our best.

The kit includes:

Energy remedies to roll (aromatherapy to pulse points)

Organic Vitality Tea (Siberian Ginseng and thyme) – boosting your get up and go

Super Antioxidant Boost

Vitality Aromatherapy Blend (Stimulates renewed vigour for life)

Maureen goes on to say “If you are serious about giving up coffee and your caffeine fix then I would suggest having a plan.”

Here is what she suggests:

Start by cutting back
Have a time slot for coffee or tea and no other time
Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and herbal teas. (Be aware Green Tea has caffeine)
Look at what you are drinking fizzy drinks contain caffeine
Some painkillers have caffeine added to them
You could try decaffeinated coffee if you are addicted to the taste of coffee, but it isn’t a natural source.
Like anything, look at the label before putting it in your mouth