Too Much Buzz How to Keep the Coffee Without the Caffeine

There are a variety of conditions that people can have that mean they need to reduce or cut their caffeine intake. This includes ADHD, heart conditions, restless leg syndrome, and more. If this applies to you, but you can’t bear the thought of giving up on coffee, then there are alternatives. Here are four coffee-flavored options that you can enjoy without the buzz. 

K Pods 
The Keurig machines have taken the world by storm offering a more convenient way to brew delicious coffee at home and save on going to the cafe every day for your cup of coffee. However, just because it’s called a coffee machine doesn’t mean that’s all it can make. Combine hot chocolate and Starbucks K Cup pods in your coffee maker to brew up a delicious drink that tastes just as rich and warm as your morning coffee. You can choose from a variety of flavors to mix and match, giving variety to your brew while keeping out the caffeine.

Lattes 
Americans love lattes, and even though they are made with coffee, you don't have to give up your love affair for these foamy delights. You can get these made with milk and other substitutes to retain the flavor and foam and keep out the coffee. Keep in mind, if you can’t have any caffeine at all due to a medical condition, then just ordering decaf won’t cut it. Even decaf coffee isn’t caffeine free, retaining around 7mg per 8-ounce cup. Make sure that if you order a coffee-free or caffeine beverage from a shop that you emphasize your need for no caffeine and that decaf is not caffeine free. Thankfully, virtually all of the syrups and flavorings they add in are caffeine free, so those are still open to use.

Anti-inflammatory Mixes 
Whoever said that coffee had to be plain or only mixed with milk and sugar? Many other cultures have discovered the wonder of mixing spices into their daily beverages. Spices can be really healthy for your joins, heart, and circulation. Consider adding a little vanilla, cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg for a flavored beverage that gives you a natural kick. While it isn’t quite the stimulant that caffeine carries, having a warm beverage with rich flavors and spices will wake up your metabolism and get your body going.

It’s not Coffee? 
Thanks to the modern wonders of culinary science, you can actually get things that contain the flavor of coffee but without the caffeine. I’m not just talking about those flavor pods, either. There are many different herbs and spices that, when combined, create the flavor of coffee but without the caffeine. Certain herbal tea mixes can be purchased online that mimic the flavor, and if it doesn’t come close enough, a touch of hazelnut will usually carry the flavor the rest of the way.

When it comes to caffeine, it is one of the most common stimulants in the world. Because of this, it is easy to find it in a variety of popular drinks. You might have found that you enjoy the taste of coffee but are looking to cut down your intake by doctor’s orders. Don't worry. With the methods above, you can still get the taste and feel of your favorite coffee drinks without the negative side effects.