#it also has a stimulant called l-theanine which is NOT found in coffee | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

launchpad-aj · 3 years

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Exactly Why Coffee Could Offer You A Faster Buzz, However Tea Might Provide Additional Sustained Power

Coffee and tea really are two of their absolute most common drinks on earth. Both contain caffeine, antioxidants, also will be able to help you feel energized, which makes it hard to pick between them both.

This is what you have to know more about the similarities and differences between coffee and tea and that is better for the health.

Coffee has more caffeine

Coffee and tea contain caffeine, a stimulant which can make you feel energized and hungry.

A large 2015 research unearthed those who have a reasonable amount of caffeine have a lower risk for type 2 diabetes compared to those who usually do not consume some other. They were also less inclined to create certain cardio vascular disorders, neurodegenerative conditions -- for example Alzheimer's and Parkinson's -- and cancers like colon cancer, uterine cancer, and liver cancer.

1 cup of coffee typically contains 80 to 100 mg of caffeine, according to Christopher Gardner, PhD, the manager of diet studies in the Stanford Prevention Research Center. One cup of tea, by contrast, only contains 30 to 50 milligrams of caffeine. Which is best: coffee vs tea weight loss?

Matthew Chow, MD, an assistant clinical professor of neurology at the University of California Davis School of Medicine Medicine, backs up this claim. "broadly speaking, coffee has two to three days greater caffeine compared to a similar-sized black tea," he states.

Nevertheless, the Specific ratio Depends upon several factors, for example:

The Kind of tea

A Mount of tea utilized to brew Acup

The warmth of the water

Amount of period the tea is made to high

Black tea, as an instance, comprises 48 mg of caffeine, whereas green tea only contains 2-9. Pure organic teas such as peppermint tea along with chamomile tea comprise no caffeine in any way.

However, it really is important you do not absorb too much caffeine, which the FDA defines as significantly more than four to five glasses of coffee each day. That's simply because in excess, caffeine could lead to:

Nausea

Diarrhea

Insomnia

Anxiety

Reduced heartbeat

In severe instances, it may induce epileptic seizures. Every one's caffeine tolerance differs, therefore it is important to see the way your body has a reaction to it and then adapt accordingly.

Tea supplies more continuing energy and attention

Since coffee contains much a lot more caffeine than tea, it will allow you a buzz that is bigger. Tea, however, seems to deliver an even more continuing rise in electricity compared to coffee does.

That is as tea, including any coffee, contains L-theanine, a chemical which metabolizes caffeine over a lengthier duration of time. A small 2008 analysis discovered that individuals who have a mixture of L-theanine and caffeine did much better in an attention test than those that consumed caffeine alone. The analysis concluded that a blend of the two improved equally cognitive attention and performance.

Each green tea and black tea contain l theanine -- green tea includes marginally more, at about 6.56 mg, in comparison with black tea's 5.13 milligrams.

Coffee comprises more Anti Oxidants

The two coffee and tea contain anti oxidants -- chemical compounds which may lower your chance of particular problems like diabetes or cancer.

Coffee has more anti oxidants commonly compared to tea preparations. A 2013 analysis found that coffee contained far more antioxidants than tea, cocoa, and red wine.

Typical antioxidants in coffee include chlorogenic, ferulic, caffeic, and n-coumaric acids. Some professionals even consider caffeine to be an antioxidant. A big part of green tea called catechin can be considered a antioxidant together with anti-inflammatory properties.

Consuming anti oxidants at the sort of coffee or tea could"potentially stop cognitive degradation," a chemical reaction which can lead to cellular damage,'' says Gardner. "If you do that, maybe you could block or treat chronic degenerative diseases," for example stroke, stroke, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, '' he states.

Just remember to consume coffee and tea in moderation for anti inflammatory added advantages, as with greater than five or four cups every day could offer health threats from the amount of caffeine.

Bill's takeaway

There isn't any crystal very clear winner between tea and coffee," says Chow. In terms of your wellness, the decision basically comes down to that impacts you want to get.

If you would prefer a fast buzz, then coffee's high-caffeine content could probably get you . However, if you are more allergic to caffeine, then you might want tea owing to the lower ingestion content along with ltheanine degrees which means you receive a longer, much more secure electricity improve.

#coffee vs tea weight loss #tea-vs-coffee #coffee #Tea

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drxfit · 3 years

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COFFEE VS. TEA – WHAT HAS BETTER HEALTH BENEFITS?

The vast majority of us drink some sort of caffeinated beverage. In fact, 90% of people in the world use caffeine in one form or another. 80% of Indian adults consume caffeine every day – the average adult has an intake of 200 mg per day, the amount in two 5-ounce cups of coffee or four sodas. Coffee and tea are two of the most popular caffeinated beverages in the world. Each offer an array of health benefits but which one is truly better for you?

ENERGY

It takes about 10 minutes for your body to feel caffeine’s effects. Caffeine makes your body release hormones that keep you active and awake, boosting your heart rate and blood pressure. On average, coffee contains double the amount of caffeine as tea. One 8 oz. cup of tea averages anywhere from 14 to 61 mg of caffeine while there is at least 95 grams of caffeine in an 8 oz. cup of coffee.

What is Better: Coffee

GENERAL HEALTH

A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that among older adults, those who drank coffee (caffeinated or decaf) had a lower risk of dying from diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and other medical complications than non-coffee drinkers. Men who drank 2 to 3 cups a day had a 10 percent chance of outliving those who drank no coffee, while women had a 13 percent advantage. Many of us look at coffee just as a vehicle to get caffeine into our body, but we forget that the coffee bean itself has tons of different compounds and antioxidants. Coffee contains a good amount of vitamins and minerals. It is also the biggest source of antioxidants in the modern diet. While both coffee and tea are high in antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in our bodies, there are more antioxidants in a cup of coffee than in a cup of tea.

Tea also contains many health benefits, especially green tea. Green tea doesn’t oxidize (which is how black and oolong teas are made), so it contains more health-boosting antioxidants called catechins—especially the cancer fighter epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG is an antioxidant that recharges the white blood cells that prevent viruses from reactivating.

What is Better: Both

WEIGHT LOSS

The caffeine content found in coffee and tea gives you that much needed energy boost so you can have a more vigorous workout, resulting in more calories burned. In addition, consuming caffeine jumpstarts the process of lipolysis, which is when your body releases free fatty acids into the bloodstream. This occurs when your body is breaking down your fat stores to convert it into energy. In other words, caffeine can increase your metabolism and help you burn more fat. Caffeine has also been shown to slightly reduce appetite. However, drinking green tea daily could trim about an inch off your waistline in 12 weeks, according to a recent American Journal of Clinical Nutrition review. That’s because EGCG and caffeine in green tea can help shrink fat cells and makes muscle cells more active.

What is Better: Tea

MUSCLE GROWTH

While tea may be better for weight loss and burning fat, coffee is the winner when it comes to packing on lean muscle due to its higher caffeine content. Caffeine can stimulate your muscles and help you push through more reps. Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln reported that weight-trained men who drank coffee one hour before working out raised the number of repetitions they could complete on the bench press. In another study, they also reported that taking caffeine before a workout session allowed them to lift 5 more pounds than normal on the bench press.

What is Better: Coffee

BETTER MOOD

Coffee is more known to give you energy while tea has been linked to calming your nerves, which is due to the L-theanine found in tea. L-theanine is an amino acid responsible for increasing alpha brain wave activity, which promotes relaxation and decreased anxiety. In fact, according to a recent study published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, tea drinkers experienced a decreased heart rate simply by smelling their tea.

What is Better: Tea

CONCLUSION

As you can see, both coffee and tea offer a range of health benefits and provide different types of better benefits from one another. While I don’t recommend drinking coffee and tea at all times of the day due to its caffeine content, a few cups a day is perfectly fine and may offer some real good health benefits. You should have no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine a day to really reap the true benefits of these beverages. If you are sensitive to caffeine intake then stick with decaff. You can still get many of those same health benefits from decaffeinated beverages. So enjoy your beverage and remember to take your coffee breaks or meditative tea breaks every so often; humans have been doing it for thousands of years.

#drs #drsuresh #drxfit #drxfitlife #drstraining

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dietdrclinic · 2 years

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Know more about Matcha

Green queen, a japanese green tea, a superfood, a powerhouse, cousin to green tea, a versatile food element or a super drink? Yes, we are talking about Matcha. From bubble-tea to cheesecake to ice-creams, it is almost everywhere.But is Matcha worth the hype? Let us know further…

Matcha is made up of compressed green tea leaves after deveining and stone grinding. The results are sweeter than green tea.Matcha is traditionally prepared by whisking a scoop of powder with hot water until frothy. Smooth and vegetal with a pleasant nutty bitterness, matcha has a grassy and sweet flavour.Theleaves are rich in catechin called EGCG which is an important antioxidant for the body. It is believed to have cancer fighting effects. Protecting cells from damaging, flushing our toxins, improving attention and concentration are some of the health benefits. It is high in amino acids and antioxidants which are important body functions.

MATCHA BENEFITS

Matcha has medicinal benefits.

1. An antioxidant powerhouse: Matcha is the highest source of antioxidants per gram with the next highest source being goji berries. One serving of matcha has 10 cups of normal brewed green tea. Matcha is rich in catechins, particularly EGCG, the most potent & beneficial antioxidant- known to prevent cancer & heart disease and effective in reducing inflammation & slowing cartilage breakdown.

2. Alkalising and Detoxifying: With its incredibly high levels of chlorophyll, matcha provides oxygen to the tissues, detoxifying & creating a healthy alkaline pH in the body.

3. Stimulates Metabolism and Burns fat: The catechin EGCG in matcha has been found to raise the body’s thermogenesis (the body’s own rate of burning calories) from 8-10% of daily expenditure to between 35-43% of daily expenditure. At the same time, it oxidates fat & limits intestinal absorption of fat, all while not raising blood pressure or heart rate.

4. Protects Skin: EGCG is proven to fight skin aging, reduce inflammation caused by UV radiation & suppress acne.

5. Increases focus and calms your mind: The shade growing of matcha elevates the L-theanine content, an amino acid that induces alpha frequency brain waves, resulting in mental calmness, improved concentration & memory, and relaxed alertness.

6. Boosting energy: It naturally contains only 1/2 the caffeine of coffee. Matcha has unique properties which help calm energy which lasts for 5.5 hours on average, with no jitters, crash or nervous energy.

Matcha Powder for your daily diet!

Seven incredible ways to getting more nutrients of matcha in your diet if you have never used matcha powder:

1. Cousinto green tea, make matcha tea. To make matcha tea, you need to add two teaspoons of matcha with hot water in a mug and stir it to dissolve. Many like to add a sweetener like honey or agave to combat the bitter flavour of raw matcha powder.The traditional preparation of matcha is a simple green tea.

2. Put it in your baked goods. Matcha can be used for baked goods like muffins, scones, healthy cookies, and more. You can replace a small quantity of flour with matcha powder. Try making matcha pancakes or waffles for breakfast. The powder also makes the baked goods green in colour making it attractive for the kids.

3. Powerful energising breakfast: Mix the matcha powder in your morning oatmeal or bowl of granola, simply stir some into your breakfast.

4. Matcha noodles. Premade matcha noodles (or recipes to make your own) to use in soups, noodle salads or healthy meals.

5. Boosting green smoothie. Adding a few teaspoons of matcha powder to your green smoothie recipe will make it even healthier and enhance the flavour. Matcha contains natural caffeine which helps create an energy boost.

6. Matcha latte. Add a few teaspoons of matcha powder in a cup and about a quarter of hot water, then top the rest of with steamed milk (you can also opt for non-dairy options like almond or coconut milk).

7. A colourful fun snack: If you are looking for a fun and healthy snack for movie night, sprinkle a little matcha powder onto your popcorn.

8. Good for studying: Matcha has been shown to improve attention, memory, and reaction time. It contains caffeine and L-theanine, which helps improve several brain functions.

Matcha powder is a powerful super food, which can be included to build a healthy lifestyle.

How to Drink Matcha

You must now be wondering that is Starbucks Matcha is good for you? So, it has two ingredients, making it about 50 percent sugar. If you aren't conscious about your weight than, the Starbucks matcha latte is worth a try. But if you are drinking matcha for the health perks, suggest brewing it at home.

Matcha is used as an indgredient in many cafeterias to make it seem like a premium drink. The great thing about matcha tea is you get the luxury benefits in its natural form. If you want to reap all the health benefits that come together with matcha green tea, the best way to drink matcha is with as little sugar and honey as possible. A little bit never hurts occasionally, but making a habit of drinking real, organic matcha will help you feel great all day long.

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therikehottrend · 3 years

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Matcha is rich in compounds called catechin polyphenols, which are high in antioxidant activity. These clever compounds do many things:..

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skinbeautystore · 5 years

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10 Super Foods for Baby Boomers Over 50

Eating healthy is important at any age but becomes especially crucial for baby boomers over 50. Why? Okay, the bad news first. As we get older, our bodies go through some major changes, as nutritional expert Tara Collingwood M.S., RDN points out in an interview for Newsmax. "Men and women alike are susceptible to bone loss, muscle loss, hormonal changes, and the dreaded middle age spread," the dietitian explains. "We see and feel these changes in our achy joints, vision impairment, heart complications, weight gain, decreased memory retention, and lack of energy - all of which are tied directly to nutrition." The good news? Eating the right foods can help prevent diseases, maintain a healthy metabolism, and help you look and feel good. Win-win! With that in mind, here are #10 super foods that boast a high nutrient-to-calorie ratio to keep your body performing optimally. You'll notice that some of these age-defying and disease-fighting super foods are items that you may already love and are sitting inside your refrigerator or pantry. #1 Wild Salmon The American Heart Association recommends eating fish two times a week, particularly fatty fish like salmon. Salmon is packed with vitamin D, potassium, B vitamins, and other important minerals, but that's not all. Fatty fish are high in omega-#3 fatty acids, which helps fight inflammation, removes triglycerides from the blood, benefits arthritis, and may even help with memory loss and dementia. (By the way, omega-3 can also be found in other fatty, cold-water fish like herring, sardines, rainbow trout, cod, tuna, and mackerel.) In addition, salmon is a complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids. This is important since protein is what our bodies use for maintenance and repair. No wonder experts often put salmon at the top of their list of healthy foods that promote good health! #2 Chia Seeds Chia seeds are nutritional, energy-boosting dynamos and the richest source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids available. The seeds are full of antioxidants, protein, minerals, plus soluble and insoluble fiber to help digestion. The tiny seeds are also a "complete protein" containing all nine essential amino acids, rare for a plant-based source of protein. Another benefit? These little seeds have an unusual quality - when combined with liquid they swell and absorb more than 10 times their weight. That means adding a spoonful or two to meals will help you feel fuller while adding some crunch and texture. If you're trying to lose a few pounds, this can be helpful! So here are a few fun facts about this super food. Although chia seeds have only become a popular health food recently, they've been around a long time as a staple of Mayan and Aztec diets. In fact, "chia" means "strength" in the Mayan language. Aztec warriors were known to use the seeds to give them high energy and endurance, especially during battles. And in case you're wondering, these seeds are the same ones used for the iconic Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia Pets that allow you to "grow" garden animals and characters. However, the seeds in these kits aren't approved for consumption, so head to a grocery or drugstore to enjoy the health benefits. These nutritious seeds are virtually tasteless, so you can add them to just about anything including oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, sauces, breakfast cereals, soups, and salads. Another popular way to eat the seeds is by making "chia pudding." Just mix some seeds with one cup of liquid like almond milk. After 15 minutes or so, the seeds "swell" and the "pudding" is ready to eat. Add some fruit, nuts, or other toppings for extra flavor. Just be careful about eating spoonfuls of the seeds by themselves which could pose a choking hazard. 3 Avocados This unique and nutritious fruit has 20 different vitamins and minerals along with antioxidants including carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin which are valuable for eye health. Surprisingly, avocados have more potassium than bananas - an essential mineral that most older adults don't get enough of that helps reduce blood pressure. Other bonuses: Avocados contain monounsaturated fatty acids, which numerous studies have shown can help lower levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol while boosting 'good' HDL cholesterol. These fruits are also high in omega-3 fatty acids which, as previously mentioned, help remove triglycerides from the blood and lower inflammation. #4 Blueberries/Blackberries These small berries are full of nutrients including vitamins, potassium, minerals and antioxidants. Blueberries and blackberries contain high levels of soluble fiber which is beneficial for maintaining a healthy weight, lowering cholesterol, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, and lowering blood pressure. The berries rank the highest of any fruit for antioxidants including concentrated levels of flavonoids, a natural brain booster that helps reduce age-related declines in motor skills and cognitive ability. When selecting berries, note that the darker they are, the more antioxidants they have. These fruits are also anti-inflammatory. The good news is that frozen are just as good as fresh and easy to toss on your morning cereal or salad. #5 Almonds. Nuts in general are good for our bodies, but almonds are the most nutrient-dense nut, ranking highest in protein, calcium, vitamin E (which helps #skin stay supple), magnesium, and folate. Almonds are also high in manganese and copper which are necessary to form collagen and can help #aging bodies look and feel younger. An added bonus: Dieters who ate almonds daily shed 62 percent more weight and 56 percent more fat than those who didn't, a study from Loma Linda University in California found. "The fiber in nuts may prevent your body from absorbing some fat, speeding weight loss," says lead author Michelle Wien, R.D. Almond eaters also lowered their blood pressure, the study noted. #6 Ginger Ginger may be best known for its ability to soothe stomach aches and ease nausea. But it has so much more to offer. This anti-aging herb is a good source of many nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, copper, manganese, and vitamin B6; however, the majority of its benefits for anti-aging nutrition come from its special phytonutrients called gingerols. As WebMD points out: "When you eat or drink phytonutrients, they may help prevent disease and keep your body working properly." Healthline adds: "Gingerol is the main bioactive compound in ginger, responsible for much of its medicinal properties. It has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects." By the way, other herbs such as garlic and turmeric also contain anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve achy joints and stiff muscles. #7 Matcha Green Tea Matcha comes from the same plant as green tea, but since it's made from the entire leaf, it packs in a more concentrated amount of antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds. The good news is that these powerful properties can help us baby boomers as we age.What makes matcha such a super food? Its key component is EGCG, a catechin linked to lowering risks to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and liver disease. Loaded with antioxidants, matcha is known for its immunity-boosting and disease-fighting properties. According to Healthline.com, "Including matcha in your diet could increase your antioxidant intake, which may help prevent cell damage and even lower your risk of several chronic diseases." EGCG is also linked to potential weight loss benefits. Matcha can crank up your metabolism, helping you burn more calories every day and process food more effectively. In fact, researchers conducted a series of studies on dieters and found that those who drank green tea lost more weight than those who didn't drink it. The amino acid L-theanine in matcha, which stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin helps improve concentration and memory. According to a study published in the journal Phytomedicine, regular consumption of green tea may even offer protection against Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. An added benefit: Unlike coffee, the amino acids in Matcha help your body absorb the caffeine gradually which releases energy slowly and sustainably. Matcha promises a four to six hour energy boost that's just enough to perk you up. Janie Zeitlin, a registered dietitian in White Plains, NY and New York City, says matcha is a "nutritional powerhouse," and "a valuable addition to any diet," but adds that moderation is best because of the potency. Most experts recommend drinking a cup or two a day. #8 Beans Experts recommend adults consume three cups of beans per week to promote health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. With good reason. This often overlooked super food is considered "heart healthy" since beans contain an abundance of soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Beans also deliver a powerful combination of vitamins and minerals, including blood-pressure-regulating magnesium, energizing iron, bone-strengthening calcium, potassium, and folate as well as antioxidants. Keep in mind, the darker the bean, the higher its antioxidant levels. As a bonus, beans help raise levels of the hormone leptin which curbs appetite and thus can help you maintain a healthy weight. Beans are also metabolized more slowly than other complex carbs, helping you feel fuller longer while delivering a great source of energy throughout the day. A comparatively inexpensive source of protein, beans can be purchased canned, frozen, or dried. To increase your intake, incorporate beans into main dishes like chile or soup, use as a filling side-dish instead of bread or potatoes, toss into a salad, or eat snacks like roasted chick peas or hummus. Have a variety of beans including kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, lima beans, black-eyed peas, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), split peas, fava beans, and lentils in your pantry and get creative! #9 Quinoa The South American grain quinoa is well-known to vegans and vegetarians because it's a complete protein and filled with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, such as B2, magnesium, copper, iron, and phosphorus. Quinoa is easy to use in place of other grains, pastas, or white rice. An excellent source of protein with sufficient amounts of all the essential amino acids, it packs more nutrition than most grains. In addition, quinoa contains large amounts of flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol. These are potent antioxidants with several health benefits. 10 Dark Chocolate Okay, I saved the best for last. Who doesn't love chocolate? Just so happens that quality dark chocolate is rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese and a few other minerals. Dark chocolate also contains organic compounds that function as antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavanols, and catechins. Some studies indicate that consuming small amounts of dark chocolate on a regular basis can lower blood pressure and decrease the rate of stroke in women by 20 percent. The darker the chocolate, the lower the fat and sugar content. However, don't go too crazy. Unfortunately, there are 170 calories in one piece (one ounce) of dark chocolate and the treat does contain sugar along with all those nutrients, so should be eaten in moderation. Still, I love that dark chocolate can be counted as a health food, don't you? https://www.skin-beauty.com Read the full article

#1 #10 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #Aging #anti-agingfoods #Skin

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basicnerdblr · 7 years

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Almost every student reaches a point in which coffee is not doing the trick in keeping you awake anymore. Although most students are binging on coffee to help them through their finals, tea is much more beneficial. Do you want to be in a calm and attentive state while studying? Have a cup of tea!

Different teas serve different purposes. Experiment with different teas and herbs to find out which ones work best with with you. The following list contains some of the teas I like to enjoy while studying.

Ginseng - This herb is a well-known adaptogen, which helps to increase the body’s resistance to stress and relieve both physical and emotional fatigue. It gives the body an energy boost without the negative effects found in stimulants like caffeine. It also has the ability to improves alertness and the ability to sharpen mental focus. In a study with lab mice on ginseng, the mice could navigate test mazes more quickly than those that weren’t.

Green Tea - Green tea contains two essential compounds (caffeine and l-theanine). L-theanine and caffeine in tea work together to improve concentration, accuracy and alertness. L-theanine is also a natural antidepressant, so if you’re stressed out tea might boost your mood. Green tea contains enzymes that slow down the caffeine in your body. This makes it easier to digest, makes the energy last longer and it counteracts the dehydrating nature of caffeine. You won’t experience a crash like you’ll do on coffee. The antioxidant EGCG in tea helps to improve cognitive function. It boosts the production of neural progenitor cells that can adapt and change into many different cells like stem cells can.

Yerba Mate - This is a popular tea among brain hackers to boost performance. Yerba mate contains less caffeine than you’ll find in coffee, but more than you’ll find in green tea. The benefits of yerba mate are also different from any other tea, and I love drinking this tea because it gives enormous energy boosts that can keep you up all night studying without making you feel anxious. This last part might be because mate contains compounds similar to chocolate that help boost your mood.

Ginkgo Biloba - This herbal tea is most known for its ability to promote brain circulation for increased brain function. It helps with memorization and mental clarity. It also increases the oxygen content of blood, which is vital for memory-enhancement. Gingko can also boost your mind and stabilize emotions.

Rosemary - This popular herb can also be boiled with water to make a relaxing herbal tea. It can be used to improve memory and concentration. One study states that rosemary improved long-term memory in rats.

Sage - Sage, the sister of rosemary, is used in traditional medicine to calm the mind and strengthen memory. It enhances memory by protecting a component in our nervous system called acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter is involved in our ability to think, learn and remember things. A study on this subject can be found here.

My other study tips

Dealing with breakups in college

Minimalistic school glow up

Sleeping and productivity

How to setup a study space

#studyblr #study tips #tea #tea tips #study advice #mine

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dark-thinspo · 7 years

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I made green tea 😍 This is i great because it is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body. This includes improved brain function, fat loss, a lower risk of cancer and many other incredible benefits. Here's a few great benifits: ♡ 1. 1. Green Tea Contains Bioactive Compounds That Improve Health. Green tea is more than just green liquid. Many of the bioactive compounds in the tea leaves do make it into the final drink, which contains large amounts of important nutrients. It is loaded with polyphenols like flavonoids and catechins, which function as powerful antioxidants These substances can reduce the formation of free radicals in the body, protecting cells and molecules from damage. One of the more powerful compounds in green tea is the antioxidant Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), which has been studied to treat various diseases and may be one of the main reasons green tea has such powerful medicinal properties. Green tea also has small amounts of minerals that are important for health. 2. Compounds in Green Tea Can Improve Brain Function and Make You Smarter. Green tea does more than just keep you awake, it can also make you smarter. The key active ingredient is caffeine, which is a known stimulant. It doesn’t contain as much as coffee, but enough to produce a response without causing the “jittery” effects associated with too much caffeine. What caffeine does in the brain is to block an inhibitory neurotransmitter called Adenosine. This way, it actually increases the firing of neurons and the concentration of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. Caffeine has been intensively studied before and consistently leads to improvements in various aspects of brain function, including improved mood, vigilance, reaction time and memory (5). However… green tea contains more than just caffeine. It also has the amino acid L-theanine, which is able to cross the blood-brain barrier. 3. Green Tea Increases Fat Burning and Improves Physical Performance. If you look at the ingredients list for any fat burning supplement, chances are that green tea will be on there. This is because green tea has been shown to increase fat burning and boost the metabolic rate, in human controlled trials. 4. Antioxidants in Green Tea May Lower Your Risk of Various Types of Cancer. Cancer is caused by uncontrolled growth of cells. It is one of the world’s leading causes of death. It is well known that oxidative damage contributes to the development of cancer and that antioxidants can have a protective effect. Green tea is an excellent source of powerful antioxidants, so it makes perfect sense that it could reduce your risk of cancer, which it appears to do: ♡ Breast cancer: A meta-analysis of observational studies found that whomen who drank the most green tea had a 22% lower risk of developing breast cancer, the most common cancer in women. ♡ Prostate cancer: One study found that men drinking green tea had a 48% lower risk of developing prostate cancer, which is the most common cancer in men. ♡ Colorectal cancer: A study of 69,710 Chinese women found that green tea drinkers had a 57% lower risk of colorectal cancer. 5. Green Tea May Protect Your Brain in Old Age, Lowering Your Risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The bioactive compounds in green tea can have various protective effects on neurons and may reduce the risk of both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, the two most common neurodegenerative disorders. 6. Green Tea Can Kill Bacteria, Which Improves Dental Health and Lowers Your Risk of Infection. The catechins in green tea may inhibit the growth of bacteria and some viruses. This can lower the risk of infections and lead to improvements in dental health, a lower risk of caries and reduced bad breath. 7. Green Tea May Lower Your Risk of Type II Diabetes. Some controlled trials show that green tea can cause mild reductions in blood sugar levels. It may also lower the risk of developing type II diabetes in the long term. 8. Green Tea May Reduce Your Risk of Cardiovascular Disease. Green tea has been shown to lower total and LDL cholesterol, as well as protect the LDL particles from oxidation. Observational studies show that green tea drinkers have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. 9. Green Tea Can Help You Lose Weight and Lower Your Risk of Becoming Obese. Given that green tea can boost the metabolic rate in the short term, it makes sense that it could help you lose weight. Some studies show that green tea leads to increased weight loss. It is particularly effective at reducing the dangerous abdominal fat. 10. Green Tea May Decrease Your Risk of Dying and Help You Live Longer. Of course, we all have to die eventually. That is inevitable. However, given that green tea drinkers are at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, it makes sense that it could help you live longer. In a study of 40,530 Japanese adults, those who drank the most green tea (5 or more cups per day) were significantly less likely to die during an 11 year period: ♡ Death of all causes: 23% lower in women, 12% lower in men. ♡ Death from heart disease: 31% lower in women, 22% lower in men. ♡ Death from stroke: 42% lower in women, 35% lower in men. ♡ Another study in 14,001 elderly Japanese individuals aged 65-84 years found that those who drank the most green tea were 76% less likely to die during the 6 year study period. Take Home Message In order to feel better, lose weight and lower your risk of chronic diseases, then you might want to consider making green tea a regular part of your life.

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airoasis · 6 years

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Deane Alban: How to Increase Dopamine, the Motivation Molecule

By of dopamine deficiency and natural methods to increase dopamine levels ... There have to do with 100 billion nerve cells in the human brain-- about as many stars as there are in the Milky Way. These cells interact with each other through brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter accountable for providing inspiration, drive, and focus. It contributes in many psychological disorders consisting of depression, addictions, ADHD, and schizophrenia.Let'stake a closer take a look at dopamine-- exactly what it does, symptoms of shortage, and the best ways to increase it naturally.Dopamine: The Motivation Molecule Dopamine has been called our"inspiration particle."It boosts our drive, focus

, and

_ blank > concentration. It makes it possible for us to plan ahead and resist impulses so we can achieve our goals. It did it!"lift when we achieve what we set out to do. It makes us competitive and provides the adventure of the chase in all elements of life-- company, sports, and love.Dopamine is in charge of our pleasure-reward system.( )It permits us to have sensations of enjoyment, happiness, and even euphoria. Too little dopamine can leave

you unfocused, unmotivated, lethargic, and even depressed.Dopamine Deficiency Symptoms People low in dopamine lack an enthusiasm for life. They exhibit low energy and motivation, and often rely on caffeine, sugar, or other stimulants to obtain through the day.Many common dopamine deficiency signs are comparable to those of depression: lack of motivation fatigue lethargy procrastination failure to feel enjoyment low sex drive sleep issues state of mind swings despondence amnesia failure to concentrate Dopamine-deficient lab mice become so apathetic and lethargic they

do not have motivation

to consume and starve to death.

()Alternatively, some individuals who are low in dopamine compensate with self-destructive habits to obtain their

dopamine increase. This can consist of use and abuse of caffeine, alcohol

, sugar, drugs, shopping, computer game,

sex, power, or gambling.How to Increase Dopamine Naturally There are plenty of unhealthy methods to raise dopamine. You don't have to resort to" sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll"to enhance your dopamine levels. Here are some healthy, tested methods to increase dopamine levels naturally.Foods That Increase Dopamine is made from the amino acid tyrosine. Eating a diet high in tyrosine will ensure you

've got the fundamental foundation required for dopamine production.Here's a list of tyrosine-rich foods:(,,, )all animal products almonds apples avocado bananas beets chocolate coffee fava beans green leafy vegetables green tea lima beans oatmeal sea vegetables sesame and pumpkin seeds turmeric watermelon wheat bacterium Foods high in natural probiotics such as yogurt, kefir, and raw sauerkraut can likewise increase natural dopamine production. Strangely, the health of your digestive flora impacts your production of neurotransmitters.A surplus of bad bacteria leaves harmful byproducts

called lipopolysaccharides which lower

levels

of dopamine.(

)Sugar has been found to enhance dopamine however this is a temporary increase, more drug-like than food-like.() Dopamine Supplements There are supplements that can raise dopamine

levels naturally. Curcumin is the active component in the spice turmeric. It's offered in an isolated form as a supplement

. It readily crosses the blood-brain barrier and can enhance levels of dopamine.(,,)Curcumin has been discovered to assist reduce obsessive actions and enhance associated memory loss by increasing dopamine.(, ) Ginkgo biloba is generally utilized for a range of brain-related problems-- poor concentration,, headaches, fatigue, mental confusion, anxiety, and stress and anxiety.()Among themechanisms by which ginkgo works is by raising dopamine.(,)

L-theanine belongs discovered in green tea. It increases levels of dopamine along with other neurotransmitters serotonin and GABA. (, )

met. We enjoy dopamine surges since of the way they make us feel. But inning accordance with Dr. Loretta Graziano Breuning, author of Meet Your Pleased Chemicals: Dopamine, Endorphin, Oxytocin, Serotonin

, we are not designed to experience a non-stop dopamine buzz. The constant hunt for dopamine boosts can turn you into a"Wolf on Wall Street "-- driven by addictions, greed, and lust.Here are some healthy ways to stabilize your dopamine

by working with your brain's integrated reward system.Enjoy the Quest Our forefathers

were on a constant quest to endure. They got a dopamine surge every time they spotted a new spot of berries or a much better fishing hole since this meant they 'd live to look for another day. While you can still choose berries and fish, there are unlimited other healthy ways you can take pleasure in the mission dopamine is vital for keeping focus. Many ADHD medications are based on this "dopamine shortage"theory. Prescription medications utilized to treat ADHD are believed to work by increasing the release of dopamine and norepinephrine while slowing down their rate of reabsorption.()However, the current research recommends that the primary reason for ADHD lies in a structural difference in the grey matter in the brain and not dopamine.( )Dopamine and Depression Serotonin is the brain chemical most associated with depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs )such as Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, and Lexapro

are prescribed for anxiety and work by increasing brain levels of serotonin. This only works in about 40%of clients who use them.()What aboutthe other 60%? There's a growing body of proof that shows low dopamine and not low serotonin is the cause of depression for lots of. Bupropion(brand Wellbutrin) has actually shown efficient for clients who haven't been helped by SSRIs by attending to dopamine deficiency. ()The best ways to figure out if your depression is more likely from serotonin versus dopamine deficiency? Serotonin-based anxiety is accompanied by anxiety and irritability, while dopamine-based depression reveals itself as sleepiness and absence of enjoyment of life.(

)Dopamine and Schizophrenia The reason for schizophrenia is unknown, but genes and ecological aspects are believed to play a role. ()

One dominating theory is that it's brought on by an over-active dopamine system.(, )Supporting proof for this theory is that the finest drugs to treat schizophrenia signs resemble dopamine and block dopamine receptors.() However, these medications can take days to work which is indicative that the exact mechanism is not yet comprehended.()How to Increase Dopamine

in a Nutshell Dopamine is our"

inspiration particle."It's also in charge of our pleasure-reward system. There are both healthy ways and unhealthy ways to increase dopamine. Unhealthy methods to increase dopamine can be gateways to self-destruction and addictions. Healthy ways consist of consuming the right foods, taking dopamine increasing supplements, workout, and meditation.Learn ways to harness your reward system for a healthy stream of dopamine. Delight in the quest, set both long term and brief term objectives, and take on new difficulties. You'll feel more alive, focused, productive, and motivated.Previous articles by Deane: Ways to Enhance Memory and Live Longer with Music Exposed: Why Cholesterol Doesn't Trigger Heart Problem Overcoming Resistance to Change: The Secret to Lasting Health Modification Your Thoughts, Change Your Brain Five Typical Food Ingredients That Can Damage Your Brain 18 Options You Make Every Day That Keep You Up in the evening Tension, Telomeres, and the Secret to Prevent Aging

and other indications of psychological decrease now, and avoiding Alzheimer's and dementia in

the future.The human brain is created to last a lifetime,

people realize.Deane teaches

to keep your brain healthy and remain psychologically sharp for life at her website BeBrainFit.com.

0 notes

frankavargas · 4 years

Text

How to Fall Asleep Quickly – 10 Hacks to Help You Snooze

Losing sleep can affect us more than we think.

Try these hacks to get your snooze on!

Today sleep has become a very underestimated commodity. Too often, the one thing people skimp on is sleep –even the healthy green smoothie drinking, soul cycling yogis! No wonder so many people are wondering how to fall asleep fast.

According to sleep neurologists, lack of sleep may affect us more than we think. In fact, too little sleep has been found to negatively impact our reproductive, cardiovascular, and immune health. [1]

What’s more, is the lack of sleep can lead to memory impairment and inability to focus. Researchers found individuals on few hours of sleep didn’t perform as well on challenging mental tasks compared to those who got seven hours of sleep a night.[2]

It even affects our mood and grasp of social cues – making you more irritable, anxious, and uncomfortable in social settings. [3]

Losing sleep may even change the quality and quantity of what you eat. Scientists found those who don’t get quality sleep are more inclined to eat junk foods than those who got adequate sleep – sleep deprivation increases ghrelin, the hunger hormone.[4]

Simply put, a person on no sleep is not a happy person. But rest assured sleepy face, we’ve gathered some of the best hacks to get you snoozing in no time!

Your Room is a Temple: Keep the Noise and Mess out

We’d say this one is the most important hacks… When learning how to fall asleep quickly.

If you want to fall asleep faster, your room needs to be set up it. You know how they say preparation is the key to success. Well so is preparation for sleep. Much of what wreaks havoc on our sleep is sitting right in front of us. The clutter, the lights, and the noise.

So make it your sanctuary –your bed is meant for rest and chillaxing. Keep the TV, tablets, computers, and smartphones out of the equation.

To make your room even more “zen”, you can try some of these useful tips:

Blue Light. Natural light from the sun regulates sleep patterns, referred to as circadian rhythms. Artificial light like blue light, LEDs, and incandescent bulbs disturb these rhythms by blocking the production of melatonin, the hormone synthesized in the brain responsible for stimulating sleep. [5]

To counter the effects of blue light, we recommend to: a. unplug 2 hours before bed; b. spend more time outdoors – the sun regulates circadian rhythms and boosts melatonin;[6] change the light bulbs in your bedroom to red spectrum light – it’s been shown to enhance deep sleep; [7] d. try blue light blocking glasses and download apps like f.lux – it moderates lighting in devices based on geolocation.

Also, try using blackout curtains, they can do wonders for your sleep.

Clutter: When your room is messy so is your mind. People living in messy bedrooms were found to take longer to fall asleep than those with tidy spaces.

Noise: As much as we’d all love to live near the woods or the mountains, most of us reside in loud neighborhoods. Although we can’t magically eliminate street sounds or chose our neighbors, we can control our space. Pro Tip: keep a pair of earplugs handy!

Have Regular Sleep Habits and Times

Many sleep physicians suggest a consistent sleep routine helps to regulate circadian rhythms. This means you go to bed and wake up at around the same time every day, even on weekends.[8]

Though sleep requirements vary by age, pregnancy, and health status, most healthy adults need between 7-9 hours to function.[9] Your sleep window also varies on your chronotype –as in some function better in the early morning, and for some, night time is when they get their best work done. Follow your own intuition and rhythm, just make sure you get enough hours in.

Stay Cool and Covered

According to scientists, the temperature of the room strongly influences the quality of our sleep. Temperatures above 24°C or 71°F were found to cause restlessness, increase wakefulness, and decrease REM sleep, whereas cooler environments with proper beddings encouraged restful sleep. [10]

The sweet spot for optimal sleep is between 16-18°C (60-65°F). Anything under 12°C (53°F) makes it hard to fall asleep. [11] This is because your body temperature decreases when you’re sleeping. Thus, sleeping semi-nude or in a cooler environment facilitates this process.

Let’s not forget our feet: the extremities of the body, the feet, and hands, regulate body temperature. For optimal sleep, pull your feet out of the cover or wear socks to bed, depending on how hot or cold you’re feeling. [12]

Clear your mind

Keep a journal near your bed and jot down anything you need to get done. Putting your thoughts on paper seems to have a clearing effect. It means they’re held for safe-keeping and can be dealt with in the morning.

Another great habit is practicing deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing increases oxygen levels in your brain. This activates the parasympathetic system and induces a relaxed state.[13]

Next time you can’t sleep, try this technique: inhale for a count of four seconds, hold the breath for a count of seven seconds, and exhale out for a count of eight seconds.[14]

Try Yin Yoga

Our all-time favorite is to practice deep stretching before bed – like a mini yoga session. Wondering how to fall asleep fast – yoga might be a good option!

It’s no secret yoga is a natural sleep aid. Research has found that yoga improves mood and overall health, due to its impact on GABA concentrations in the brain, the mood-stabilizing neurotransmitter. [15] Other GABA activators include L-Theanine, Magnolia Bark, Rhodiola rosea, and Magnesium.

A few poses that have helped us fall asleep are forward fold, butterfly pose, child’s pose, legs up the wall, supine twists and side bends. Yin yoga, a type of yoga in which postures are held for longer periods of time, is known to lower cortisol levels and activate the parasympathetic response – your body’s rest and digest mechanism, calming the nervous system, setting you up for a restful sleep.[16]

Take a warm shower or bath

Scientists have indicated that taking a warm shower or bath before bed helps you fall asleep faster. When you come out of a warm shower or bath, your body temperature drops significantly, which is why you feel cold straight away. This replicates your body’s temperature when it’s asleep (16-18°C) helping you fall asleep faster.

Eat healthy and early

Going to bed with too little or too much can disturb your sleep. Eating a balanced meal with some healthy fats is optimal for sleep. Avoid stimulants like coffee or sugar before bed – unless your idea of rest is to bounce off the walls.

Eating healthy fats like avocado, fatty fish or nuts balances your blood sugars. This keeps your cravings at bay, making you less likely to wake up for a midnight snack. [17]

Dinner time also impacts your sleep quality. The night is when your brain and gastrointestinal tract digest the information and food processed that day. Keep your meal simple and eat 3 hours before bed: your body and mind will love you for it.

Avoid stimulants after noon.

If you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, steer clear of caffeine after noon.

The effects of caffeine vary from person to person. Physiological factors such as age, health, pregnancy, body weight, and metabolism come into play.

Generally speaking, caffeine has a 5 to 6-hour half-life, which is the time it takes your body to eliminate half of the caffeine. This means caffeine can stay in your system for up to 12 hours! [18]

If you are sensitive to caffeine, having coffee after noon can turn one sleepless night into a vicious cycle of insomnia. So do yourself a favor, next time you’re falling asleep on your desk, grab a glass of water, stretch, or go for a walk instead.

How to Fall Asleep Fast: Exercise is Your Best Friend

One of the easiest ways to help you sleep better is to get moving. As little as 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise can significantly improve the quality of your sleep.

Researchers have discovered physical activity regulates circadian rhythms. This is because the heat produced from exercise causes a subsequent drop in temperature, which then leads to sleepiness at night time.

What’s more, is the surge of energy and positivity you get from a sweat session. The cause: moving your body releases mood-elevating hormones in the brain called endorphins.

The timing of exercise may be relevant for sleep. This varies from person to person. Some say it knocks them out while others get revved up and have trouble falling asleep. Test it out and see how you feel. Just avoid vigorous activity less than an hour before bed. [19]

To sum it up, the more you exercise, the better you feel physically and mentally. The more relaxed you are, the better you sleep!

Read a book, try herbs or essential oils

If you’re still having trouble falling asleep, try reading a relaxing book while sipping on a cup of valerian or chamomile tea. Or even give our Sleep Stack supplement a go!

Additional dietary supplements/herbs for relaxation and sleep:

Peppermint tea

Phenibut

Melatonin

Magnolia Bark Extract

Magnesium

We also love to add a few drops of lavender essential oil on the pillowcase before going to bed. It has such a warm and fuzzy feel to it.

If you’re feeling creative, you can make a DIY lavender sachet. Simply grab a few lavender stems, dry, chop and pack them into a small cloth bag. Leave the sachet under the pillow for a blissful sleep.

To Sum It Up – How to Fall Asleep Quickly:

Have a consistent sleep routine

Unplug and unwind 2 hours before bed

Exercise

Keep the bedroom cool, clean, dark and void of any devices

Eat 2-3 hours before bed, ideally a simple to digest meal with a healthy fat

Use the bedroom for sleep only

Avoid sugar, caffeine or stimulating activities

Take magnesium or other listed herbs

Write a to-do list

We hope this article can help you find calm and serenity, and most importantly give you the sleep you deserve!

Can you see the sheep grazing yet? We sure can…

Sweet Dreams!

The post How to Fall Asleep Quickly – 10 Hacks to Help You Snooze appeared first on LiftMode Blog.

How to Fall Asleep Quickly – 10 Hacks to Help You Snooze published first on https://liftmode.wordpress.com/

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liftmode · 4 years

Text

How to Fall Asleep Quickly - 10 Hacks to Help You Snooze

Losing sleep can affect us more than we think.

Try these hacks to get your snooze on!

According to sleep neurologists, lack of sleep may affect us more than we think. In fact, too little sleep has been found to negatively impact our reproductive, cardiovascular, and immune health. [1]

It even affects our mood and grasp of social cues – making you more irritable, anxious, and uncomfortable in social settings. [3]

Simply put, a person on no sleep is not a happy person. But rest assured sleepy face, we’ve gathered some of the best hacks to get you snoozing in no time!

Your Room is a Temple: Keep the Noise and Mess out

We’d say this one is the most important hacks... When learning how to fall asleep quickly.

So make it your sanctuary –your bed is meant for rest and chillaxing. Keep the TV, tablets, computers, and smartphones out of the equation.

To make your room even more “zen”, you can try some of these useful tips:

Also, try using blackout curtains, they can do wonders for your sleep.

Clutter: When your room is messy so is your mind. People living in messy bedrooms were found to take longer to fall asleep than those with tidy spaces.

Have Regular Sleep Habits and Times

Many sleep physicians suggest a consistent sleep routine helps to regulate circadian rhythms. This means you go to bed and wake up at around the same time every day, even on weekends.[8]

Stay Cool and Covered

Clear your mind

Another great habit is practicing deep breathing exercises. Deep breathing increases oxygen levels in your brain. This activates the parasympathetic system and induces a relaxed state.[13]

Next time you can’t sleep, try this technique: inhale for a count of four seconds, hold the breath for a count of seven seconds, and exhale out for a count of eight seconds.[14]

Try Yin Yoga

Our all-time favorite is to practice deep stretching before bed – like a mini yoga session. Wondering how to fall asleep fast - yoga might be a good option!

Take a warm shower or bath

Eat healthy and early

Eating healthy fats like avocado, fatty fish or nuts balances your blood sugars. This keeps your cravings at bay, making you less likely to wake up for a midnight snack. [17]

Avoid stimulants after noon.

If you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, steer clear of caffeine after noon.

The effects of caffeine vary from person to person. Physiological factors such as age, health, pregnancy, body weight, and metabolism come into play.

Generally speaking, caffeine has a 5 to 6-hour half-life, which is the time it takes your body to eliminate half of the caffeine. This means caffeine can stay in your system for up to 12 hours! [18]

How to Fall Asleep Fast: Exercise is Your Best Friend

One of the easiest ways to help you sleep better is to get moving. As little as 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise can significantly improve the quality of your sleep.

What’s more, is the surge of energy and positivity you get from a sweat session. The cause: moving your body releases mood-elevating hormones in the brain called endorphins.

To sum it up, the more you exercise, the better you feel physically and mentally. The more relaxed you are, the better you sleep!

Read a book, try herbs or essential oils

If you’re still having trouble falling asleep, try reading a relaxing book while sipping on a cup of valerian or chamomile tea. Or even give our Sleep Stack supplement a go!

Additional dietary supplements/herbs for relaxation and sleep:

Peppermint tea

Phenibut

Melatonin

Magnolia Bark Extract

Magnesium

We also love to add a few drops of lavender essential oil on the pillowcase before going to bed. It has such a warm and fuzzy feel to it.

To Sum It Up - How to Fall Asleep Quickly:

Have a consistent sleep routine

Unplug and unwind 2 hours before bed

Exercise

Keep the bedroom cool, clean, dark and void of any devices

Eat 2-3 hours before bed, ideally a simple to digest meal with a healthy fat

Use the bedroom for sleep only

Avoid sugar, caffeine or stimulating activities

Take magnesium or other listed herbs

Write a to-do list

We hope this article can help you find calm and serenity, and most importantly give you the sleep you deserve!

Can you see the sheep grazing yet? We sure can…

Sweet Dreams!

The post How to Fall Asleep Quickly - 10 Hacks to Help You Snooze appeared first on LiftMode Blog.

0 notes

michaelfallcon · 4 years

Text

Meet Taika: The New Adaptogenic Canned Coffee From Kal Freese

Kal Freese is a two-time Finland National Barista Champion (2013, 2015) and part of the founding team at Sudden Coffee in the San Francisco Bay Area. Sudden Coffee helped launch a new category of specialty instant coffee—a wholesale rethink of the product that is still making waves around the specialty coffee world. Freese left Sudden in 2017 and is now the co-founder of Taika, a company that is today debuting a new line of ready-to-drink adaptogenic infused coffee beverages.

Taika, which means “magic” in Finnish, is launching with three plant-based coffee beverage offerings: a sugar-free, keto-friendly macadamia latte that Freese says “tastes like melted coffee ice cream,” an oat milk latte, and an unsweetened black coffee. All contain the same adaptogen blend of Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Ashwagandha, and L-theanine designed to balance out the effects of caffeine and to, according to Taika’s website, keep the drinker “calm, focused, and clear.”

James Hoffmann—the London-based coffee vlogger, author, product spokesman, and World Barista Champion—is one of Taika’s early investors. He tells Sprudge he’s excited to work with Taika for several reasons.

“Firstly, and most importantly, they’re focused on the destination, where coffee takes you, how it makes you feel. Secondly, they really understand what great tasting coffee is and how hard it is to do well. This means that the moment they told me about the products, I wanted them in my fridge at home and at my office too. Most of the time I drink coffee because I either enjoy the taste or because I want focus and productivity, so that Taika does both without compromise or making me choose makes it incredibly compelling.”

Not bad as far as introductions go, but we just had to learn more. I spoke with Kal Freese digitally and asked him a range of questions about Taika, adaptogens, price points, and what he sees as the future of coffee.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Hey Kal—thanks for speaking with Sprudge. How long has your new project Taika been in the works?

Kal Freese: I started working on Taika with my co-founder Michael Sharon in early 2019. Unlike most other CPG companies, we started by selling the coffee to our friends and their offices in private beta from the very first batch. This allowed us to get immediate feedback, iterate really rapidly, and sell over 50,000 cans before even launching publicly.

What’s in a can of Taika?

Both Michael and I love coffee (surprise). Alas, over the past few years caffeine started giving us nasty side effects many people are familiar with: anxiety, jitters, and heart palpitations. Decaf wasn’t the answer: most of the time we wanted some caffeine, but not too much.

This is when we learned about L-theanine and other adaptogens—natural plant extracts and functional mushrooms—that support the body’s ability to deal with stress. We started researching and experimenting with these compounds. Adaptogens turned out to be a game-changer in balancing the caffeine and reducing the side effects.

However, keeping a bunch of random capsules with you and remembering to take them every time you have coffee sucks. So we set out to create a coffee that’s absolutely delicious and perfectly calibrated with the highest quality adaptogens so there are no compromises.

We only use FDA GRAS certified natural plant extracts and functional mushrooms that have legit scientific evidence validating their effectiveness and safety. They also have a long history of demonstrated use in many cultures. For example, L-theanine is naturally found in green tea and has very robust evidence proving its effectiveness in working synergistically with caffeine.

We were also frustrated with so many other delicious drinks being so full sugar. We wanted to make Taika authentically good for you by not adding any sugar. Instead, we use a combo of monk fruit and allulose, a naturally-occurring rare sugar that’s found in figs and wheat. It’s almost as sweet as sugar but has 10% of the calories and no impact on blood sugar.

Most canned coffees are actually too high in caffeine: around 200mg per can. For most people, this much caffeine is counterproductive as it creates too much stimulation. Based on scientific research and our tests, the ideal amount seems to be around 100mg per can. During our R&D process, we ended up developing a method which we’ve now patented for adjusting the naturally occurring caffeine in coffee. We use this to dial the caffeine for every batch we make.

How important was it that this coffee product tastes like *good coffee*?

Taste is the most important thing. Our focus has always been on taste, health, and wellness—in that order. Right now, most beverages are either delicious or healthy but rarely both. We wanted to create something that’s both uncompromisingly delicious and authentically healthy.

Our coffee is roasted by 49th Parallel in Vancouver, BC. They’re one of my absolute favorite roasters in the world and I’ve been working with them since 2015. Their direct trade sourcing practices are among the best and their roasting is consistently on point. If you’ve ever been in a cupping with me, you might have heard me complain about underdeveloped roasts. That never happens with 49th.

What category does this product belong in? Are there any other companies doing something similar?

Roughly speaking, Taika straddles two categories: premium ready-to-drink coffee and functional beverages. That being said—taking a step back, we see this massive trend emerging at the intersection of taste, health, and wellness. Functional foods, plant-based meats, keto cereals, and similar products are seeing rapidly growing demand from consumers who want easier ways of living proactive, healthy, and joyful lifestyles. We call this stealth health.

Stealth health means creating products that are uncompromisingly delicious, authentically good for you, and tap into existing behaviors like your daily coffee ritual. We believe that there’s a huge global demand for these stealth health products, so we’re starting by reimagining a beverage that’s a global commodity and gets consumed more than 2 billion times a day: coffee.

Tell us about the price point—when Sudden launched it was $6 per cup and the big question was how to scale and bring that price down. Is this a consideration with Taika?

After working in coffee for more than a decade, I started to see this big discrepancy between the specialty coffee industry and the mainstream consumers. We in the specialty world are obsessed with the origin: what makes our coffee special. However, for the vast majority of people, coffee is a functional beverage that can also taste nice. Over indexing on the origin alienates us from consumers who care more about functionality, ritual, and convenience. Billions of people in the world are physiologically dependent on coffee’s functionality but I’ve seen virtually no brands trying to improve this.

Instead of the origin, Taika is focused on the destination: how the coffee makes you feel. This doesn’t mean we don’t care about the origin. We work with 49th Parallel to source amazing single-origin coffee and do everything in our power to make sure the sourcing practices are top-notch; we just don’t put all that in front of the can.

There are plenty of origin-focused premium cold brews at the $5 price point. Taika is not an answer to the lack of good coffee, but rather to an abundance of it. We believe that for anyone looking to get more out of their coffee, we deliver significant value that justifies that price point.

The $6 price point lands us squarely in the mid-range of functional and CBD beverages, with Vybes ($8) and Dirty Lemon ($10) picking up the upper end of that range.

There’s a lot of magical language on the can itself. Is there a balance between magic and science when it comes to adaptogenic coffee products?

One of our customers in NYC made a point that it felt almost magical to get a case of delicious yet healthy macadamia latte delivered to her within two hours in the middle of a pandemic, especially when a typical Amazon or grocery delivery now takes several days or a week.

This is the perfect example of the “wow” experience I love to create for my customers. I closed my cafe in Helsinki and started Sudden Coffee to make great coffee more accessible on a bigger scale. With Taika, we’re building the version 3.0 of what I call “scalable hospitality:” leveraging technology to accentuate the product experience and enable our customers to connect with the brand in a fun and accessible way.

In the beginning, I put my personal number on the cans so people could text us feedback and order more. It worked so well that we decided to put the number front and center. We’ve had some hilarious philosophical discussions with people trying to figure out whether they’re talking to a bot or a human. It’s fun and weird—a pretty good substitute for not being able to go to your local coffee shop right now.

You’re debuting Taika during an unprecedented historical moment—has the launch strategy changed?

In early March, more than 80% of our revenue was coming from office customers. That disappeared overnight with the shelter-in-place order and we completely pivoted our beta to a DTC approach.

We were originally planning on launching in April and decided to push that back by a month. I know this is a really hard time for a lot of people, including a huge part of my beloved coffee community. It feels weird to be launching a new product now because there’s so much uncertainty and so many people are suffering on many different levels.

On the other hand, we’ve been running this private beta for over a year and the feedback from our friends and beta testers about the benefits of calming, immunity-boosting WFH coffee has been unequivocally positive. We feel like providing this product and a fun, lighthearted approach to the space at this time is a way for us to help people cope. To address concerns around social distancing, we also launched two-hour contactless deliveries in SF, LA, and NYC.

In addition, for every case sold we’re donating a case to our heroes, the frontline medical workers. So far we’ve handed out over 1,200 cans. If you know someone in the frontlines in SF or NYC who could use coffee, shoot us an email at [email protected].

Where will this be available?

Taika is currently available for contactless local delivery within two hours in SF, LA, and NYC and select retail stores, including Erewhon in LA and Bi-Rite, Rainbow Grocery, and Good Eggs in the Bay Area.

What’s the next step?

Growing our team, expanding our retail presence in SF, LA, and NYC and starting working on some new, exciting stealth health products beyond coffee.

Thank you.

Follow Taika on Instagram and visit their official website.

Zachary Carlsen is a co-founder and editor at Sprudge Media Network. Read more Zachary Carlsen on Sprudge.

Meet Taika: The New Adaptogenic Canned Coffee From Kal Freese published first on https://medium.com/@LinLinCoffee

0 notes

shebreathesslowly · 4 years

Text

Meet Taika: The New Adaptogenic Canned Coffee From Kal Freese

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Hey Kal—thanks for speaking with Sprudge. How long has your new project Taika been in the works?

What’s in a can of Taika?

How important was it that this coffee product tastes like *good coffee*?

What category does this product belong in? Are there any other companies doing something similar?

Tell us about the price point—when Sudden launched it was $6 per cup and the big question was how to scale and bring that price down. Is this a consideration with Taika?

The $6 price point lands us squarely in the mid-range of functional and CBD beverages, with Vybes ($8) and Dirty Lemon ($10) picking up the upper end of that range.

There’s a lot of magical language on the can itself. Is there a balance between magic and science when it comes to adaptogenic coffee products?

You’re debuting Taika during an unprecedented historical moment—has the launch strategy changed?

In early March, more than 80% of our revenue was coming from office customers. That disappeared overnight with the shelter-in-place order and we completely pivoted our beta to a DTC approach.

Where will this be available?

What’s the next step?

Growing our team, expanding our retail presence in SF, LA, and NYC and starting working on some new, exciting stealth health products beyond coffee.

Thank you.

Follow Taika on Instagram and visit their official website.

Zachary Carlsen is a co-founder and editor at Sprudge Media Network. Read more Zachary Carlsen on Sprudge.

from Sprudge https://ift.tt/2T1hBd7

#Sprudge

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