Caffeine is a commonplace central nervous system stimulant drug which occurs in nature as part of the coffee, tea, yerba mate and other plants.
If the above Wikipedia description isn't enough to make you realise that the 'drug' that keeps you from sleeping is not the healthiest way to stay awake, and if you're reading this while you sip on your morning cuppa—you need an intervention. Immediately.
The Ugly Truth
It has been demonstrated that a minimum of 100 mg of caffeine in a day (approximately one cup of coffee) is enough to form a physical dependence to the drug, leading to two significant possibilites: making your central nervous system sensitive to the effects of adenosine (the compound that promotes sleep) once you decide to quit, and tolerance towards the drug’s affect, thus increasing your craving to want more.
While withdrawal can cause headaches, muscle pains and depressing mood swings, facing these temporary changes is better than a permanent addiction, and reason enough to look for healthier substitutes.
Lose your dependence on caffeine and boost your energy with natural subsititutes—Vogue gets two nutrition specialists to share their power recipes to kickstart your day sans the stimulant.
We're not saying quit the game, but it's definitely a great idea to play it right.
What: The Miracle Juice
By Suman Agarwal, celebrity nutritionist and fitness consultant
Why: "Miracle juice is not only amazing for skin, but also blood pressure. It has anti-cancer properties and fights back acidity too. It is rich in iron, which is great for immunity and hair. It includes fresh vegetables and fruits that are rich in anti-oxidants and are natural forms of sugar, which give an immediate boost to the energy."
What you need:
¼ Boiled beetroot
1/2 Apple
½ Of a big carrot
1 Tomato
1 Amla (optional)
1/2 Pomegranate
Method: Put all these vegetables and fruits in the vegetable juicer and remember to drink it immediately.
What: Wheatgrass and Banana Smoothie
By Shraddha Gadit, nutritionist, Gold's Gym India
Why: "Bananas are high in potassium, contain vitamin B complex that helps restore energy and are a good source of soluble fiber. They also contain tryptophan, which helps in uplifting the mood. Wheatgrass contains a wide variety of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Both, wheatgrass and bananas are two of the most alkalizing foods. This is important because the kind of food we consume these days throw the body into an acidic state that can make it more susceptible to diseases like cancer."
What you need:
3 or 4 Ripe bananas
2 cups Cold water
1 tbsp Wheatgrass powder
Method: Start by pouring the cold water into your blender. Add chopped bananas and wheatgrass powder and blend until the mixture gets a creamy texture.
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