Graphic courtesy of Kaitlyn De Armas ('21).

Green tea

While waking up to a fresh pot of coffee in the morning will quickly shake off the feeling of restlessness, it may not be the healthiest solution for your mind. Instead, opt for a mug of green tea, which has just enough caffeine to liven you for the day without giving you the jitters or affecting your sleep schedule. Green tea is also packed with amino acids, such as L-theanine, which can help with focus and mental stimulation. Beyond just waking you up in the morning, it also has been shown to lower cholesterol, fight cavities, speed up the metabolism, and act as an antiviral agent. If the flavoring of green tea is not for you, try adding in another flavored herbal tea alongside it, such as peach or mint, to enjoy the benefits without the strong flavor.