Are you a hardcore coffee drinker who sometimes thinks about changing up your morning routine? 

Have you ever thought there may be something better than coffee to have in the morning. I know, I know, just bear with me here…

Well, maybe there is, maybe there isn’t. Let’s chat about a few different hot beverage options as we move into the winter, specifically yerba mate and matcha.

Yerba mate, matcha and coffee each have distinct health benefits including mental clarity and energy but they differ significantly in their nutritional profiles.

Yerba Mate - Made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, yerba mate is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (A, C, and E) and minerals, including magnesium and potassium. It contains moderate caffeine levels, typically less than coffee, offering a smooth, sustained energy boost without the jitteriness associated with stronger caffeine sources. Yerba mate also contains theobromine, which may improve mood and cognitive function, along with saponins that have anti-inflammatory properties.

Matcha - A powdered form of green tea, matcha is exceptionally high in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which are known for their cancer-fighting and cardiovascular health benefits. Matcha contains caffeine but also has high levels of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and focus, resulting in calm, alert energy. L-theanine also may reduce stress, making matcha a popular choice for mindfulness practices. Additionally, its chlorophyll content helps with detoxification and supports skin health.

Coffee - Known for its robust caffeine content, coffee is a powerful stimulant that increases alertness and overall “mental happiness". Coffee is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, which can reduce inflammation and are linked to a lower risk of conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Some studies also show coffee can support heart health and possibly aid in fat burning (and metabolic efficiency), though high amounts may lead to jitteriness or insomnia in some athletes.

So, to summarize - yerba mate is ideal for sustained energy with balanced nutrients, matcha provides calm focus with detoxifying benefits and coffee delivers a strong energy kick with metabolic and cognitive advantages.

I’m not trying to get you to give up your morning cup of “liquid gold” but if you ever feel like you need a break from coffee, yerba mate and matcha would be excellent replacements. 

Or, just cycle through all three of these wonderful beverages throughout the year to get all of the great benefits from each one!