Energy-boosting coffee alternatives

Emily Ng
Jul 20, 2023
2 min read

Updated: Sep 27, 2024

When you're low on energy, is it worth trying yerba mate or matcha for energy perks and health benefits? Often marketed as wellness drinks, coffee alternatives like these are trending, according to the International Food Information Council. So, how do a few popular alternatives stack up nutritionally? Do they rely on caffeine for an energy boost? Do they contain potentially healthy (or unhealthy) plant compounds?

What to know about yerba mate

Yerba mate (or mate) is an herbal tea from the Ilex paraguariensis tree in South America that has an earthy and more bitter flavor than other teas. It contains antioxidant polyphenols like chlorogenic acid, plus as much caffeine as coffee or more (80 to 175 mg per cup). Preliminary research suggests it might promote weight loss and lower blood cholesterol, but studies are inconclusive. Users report less fatigue and better focus — likely from its caffeine content — but without jitteriness.

What to know about matcha tea

Matcha comes from the same Camellia sinensis plant as green tea. However, unlike green tea, matcha is grown in the shade, which protects it from sunlight and oxidation and contributes to its bright green color and higher polyphenol content. Whole tea leaves and stems of matcha are ground into a fine powder, which is then whisked with hot water or milk. Matcha contains about 40 to 175 mg caffeine per cup and has the same antioxidant polyphenols as green tea, specifically theanine and catechins. However, because whole leaves are used to make matcha, it may contain higher concentrations than standard green tea.

If you are interested and looking for a coffee alternatives and keen to try Yerba Mate or/and Matcha tea, here are some high-quality products you could try. I am using them for myself and my family, recommending it to my clients too.