13 Natural Mind & Energy Boosters That Are Better Than Coffee

As the pace of modern life continues to accelerate, we often find ourselves struggling to stay mentally alert and physically energized throughout the day. 

Many of us rely on coffee to give us the boost we need to get through the day. However, there are a variety of other ingredients that can be even more effective at promoting mental alertness and physical energy. 

Here are details on 13 powerful ingredients that can power your day, without the downsides of multiple cups of coffee. 

1. Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals that help maintain the balance of fluids in our bodies. They are essential for proper muscle and nerve function and can help prevent dehydration. Electrolyte supplements, such as those that contain sodium, potassium, and magnesium, have been shown to improve physical performance and reduce fatigue. In a study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine, researchers found that athletes who took electrolyte supplements during a 60-minute cycling time trial had significantly lower levels of perceived exertion and fatigue than those who took a placebo.

2. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to improve physical and mental health. It has been shown to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and boost energy levels. In a study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, researchers found that participants who took ashwagandha for 60 days had significantly higher scores on cognitive tests and lower levels of stress than those who took a placebo.

3. L-theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found in green tea that has been shown to improve mental focus and reduce anxiety. It works by increasing levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. In a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Neuroscience, researchers found that participants who took L-theanine had significantly higher levels of attention and alertness than those who took a placebo.

4. Theobromine
Theobromine is a natural compound found in cocoa beans that has been shown to improve mental alertness and physical energy. It works by dilating blood vessels, which increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain and muscles. In a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, researchers found that participants who took theobromine had significantly faster reaction times and higher levels of mental alertness than those who took a placebo.

5. Green Coffee Beans
Green coffee beans are coffee beans that have not been roasted. They contain a compound called chlorogenic acid, which has been shown to reduce the absorption of carbohydrates and increase fat metabolism. In a study published in the Journal of International Medical Research, researchers found that participants who took green coffee bean extract had significantly lower levels of body fat and BMI than those who took a placebo.

6. Neurofactor
Neurofactor is a patented extract from the fruit of the coffee plant that has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce oxidative stress. It works by increasing levels of a protein called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which is essential for the growth and survival of brain cells. In a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers found that participants who took Neurofactor had significantly higher levels of BDNF and improved cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo.

7. Bioperine
Bioperine is a patented extract of black pepper that has been shown to enhance the absorption of other nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. It works by inhibiting enzymes that break down nutrients in the gut, allowing them to be absorbed more effectively. In a study published in the Journal of Ayurvedic and Integrative Medicine, researchers found that participants who took Bioperine along with curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, had significantly higher levels of curcumin in their bloodstream than those who took curcumin alone.  Including this in your daily supplement regime can ensure you’re getting the max out of them. 

8. L-tyrosine
L-tyrosine is an amino acid that plays a key role in the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which are important for mental alertness and focus. It has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce stress. In a study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, researchers found that participants who took L-tyrosine had significantly improved mental performance during a stressful task compared to those who took a placebo.

9. Blueberry Powder
Blueberry powder is a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. It has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce mental fatigue. In a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, researchers found that participants who consumed blueberry powder had significantly improved working memory and executive function compared to those who consumed a placebo.

10. Broccoli Extract
Broccoli extract contains a compound called sulforaphane, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. It has also been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression. In a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, researchers found that participants who took sulforaphane had significantly improved mood and cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo.

11. Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is a rich source of catechins, which are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. It has also been shown to improve mental alertness and reduce mental fatigue. In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers found that participants who consumed green tea extract had significantly improved cognitive function and increased activity in the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain associated with working memory and attention.

12. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. It has also been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of depression. In a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology, researchers found that participants who took curcumin had significantly improved mood and cognitive function compared to those who took a placebo.

13. Tart Cherry
Tart cherry is a rich source of antioxidants and contains high levels of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. It has been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation. In a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, researchers found that athletes who consumed tart cherry juice had significantly reduced muscle damage and inflammation compared to those who consumed a placebo.

Comparing These Ingredients to Coffee

While coffee can certainly provide a quick energy boost, it can also lead to jitters, anxiety, and crashes. [Sure does in me! My husband can’t even have decaf it makes him so anxious.]

In contrast, the ingredients we have discussed above can provide a more sustained and balanced boost of energy and mental alertness without the negative side effects associated with coffee.

Moreover, many of these ingredients have additional health benefits beyond their effects on energy and alertness. 

For example, the antioxidants in blueberry powder, broccoli extract, and green tea extract can help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation, which are key contributors to a wide range of chronic health conditions.

In conclusion, there are natural substances that can be even more effective than coffee at promoting mental alertness and physical energy. All the above, and especially in combination, all have unique properties that can help improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and boost energy levels. 

By incorporating these ingredients into your diet, you can experience more sustained and balanced energy and mental clarity throughout the day, without the negative side effects associated with coffee.

Of course, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene are all important factors in maintaining optimal cognitive function and energy levels…

But all the powerful ingredients we explored above can help improve cognitive function, reduce stress, and boost energy levels, again, minus the jitters and adrenal surge so common with coffee.

If you want to have a daily dose of ALL these fantastic ingredients, in a really delicious flavor…

And take advantage of sustained mental clarity and energy throughout your day…

>>Be sure to check out Early Bird Morning Cocktail