Need a little pick-me-up? Here are some natural alternatives to energy drinks!

It's 3 p.m. on a Saturday afternoon, I've just finished some errands and I'm feeling a bit tired on my way home. I decide to quickly stop at the convenience store to get an energy drink (the one that gives you wings) in the hopes of being a little more energized for my dinner tonight. In the end, my boost lasts an hour, then I crash, finding myself even more tired than I was when I started, even before welcoming my guests.

This has probably happened to you too. If, like me, you're looking for gentler, more body-friendly alternatives, read on.

1. Energy drinks, but natural, to avoid the crash

Natural energy drinks are often a little less effective and quick-acting than other, more chemically charged and sugary beverages. However, you also avoid the crash afterward. With energizing ingredients like black tea, guarana, and green tea extract, you'll feel less guilty and more supported when you opt for a little productivity boost. Don't forget to stock up online so you always have a supply, as these drinks are often hard to find at your local convenience store!

2. Kombucha

In addition to having wonderful digestive benefits, kombucha gives you energy! It contains small amounts of caffeine and vitamin B, and iron, which is produced by black tea during the fermentation process. Not to mention the bubbles that always add a little life to our drinks!

3. Matcha

Who can resist the comforting yet refreshing side of a good matcha latte? For those who don't know, matcha is essentially ground green tea that you drink instead of removing after brewing like you would with regular tea. So, if regular green tea has tons of benefits, you can imagine that they are multiplied with matcha! You'll get a sustained energy boost for several hours, with a very slow and gradual comedown.

4. Vitamins, for long-term effects and other benefits

We're not talking about a quick, instant energy boost here, but rather a healthy ritual that will increase your overall energy level every day. Of course, these aren't little miracles in the form of candy! You have to pair it all with healthy lifestyle habits, like a good night's sleep, to reap the benefits!

5. Coffee reinvented

When I learned that MushUp combined coffee and mushrooms, I was hesitant. But, as they say, once you try it, you'll love it! Not only does it not taste like mushrooms at all, but, in addition to the natural boost of coffee, the benefits of the mushrooms are definitely present! I take the Spark when I really need to focus and be productive, and the Vital when I need a little detox the day after a heavy dinner.