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I like my coffee made from ethically sourced, farmed and roasted beans, preferably from Uganda or Colombia.

Yeah, I’m that person, and I’m not ashamed to admit it.

(As an aside, you can win a year’s supply of quality coffee and a SMEG machine here.)

I also like it first thing in the morning and have perfected the art of revving up the coffee machine before I’m awake enough to form words.

Recent studies, however, have shown that caffeine a few minutes after you wake up isn’t the best way to start the day. Having your coffee later in the day actually makes it more effective, and helps to stave off the crash that many of us feel an hour or two after that first cup.

While this is all good and well, it doesn’t change the fact that the average person needs an early energy boost to tackle the day, especially if sleep didn’t come easy, and the night was spent tossing and turning.

CNET spoke to nutritionist Brigid Titgemeier to find some alternative ways to get going in the morning, so that you can stay productive while you wait to enjoy your favourite brew.

Drink Water

I’m sure you’re tired of hearing that you need to stay hydrated, but it bears repeating.

One of the potential negative effects of dehydration is fatigue, and if you’re already tired, it only makes things worse.

“Dehydration is an extremely common cause of fatigue and cognitive impairment. Research has demonstrated that when you restrict fluids from a person, the most common symptoms include fatigue, increased sleepiness, confusion and decreased alertness,” says Titgemeier.

Start your day with a tall glass of water.

Eat healthy foods that support energy

When you’re shuffling around the house in the morning, the last thing that you want to do is put the effort into whipping up a healthy breakfast. At the same time, one of the best ways to combat grogginess is to fuel your body properly.

Titgemeier suggests focusing on easy to consume, nutrient-dense choices like smoothies.

“Smoothies are a great way to load up on nutrients and antioxidants in foods like berries, chia seeds and flax seeds that help to create steady energy throughout the entire day.”

You can make your smoothies at home, but if you’re unable to whip up breakfast, chances are you’ll find ways to avoid the blender.

Sir Fruit offers a range of delicious smoothies that’ll eliminate the admin of making a brekkie before you’ve had your daily caffeine.

For those chia seeds that Titgemeier recommends, try the Sir Fruit Raspberry, Strawberry, Beetroot, Yoghurt and Chia Seeds smoothie:

Personally, I’m partial to the Sir Fruit Pineapple, Coconut, Banana, Yoghurt, and Oats smoothie:

Liquids like smoothies leave the stomach more quickly, which means that they get energy to the rest of your body faster.

Head here to order your breakfast online.

Exercise

Once that smoothie is in your system, do a little light exercise, even if it’s just a good old stretch and a walk around the living room.

Morning yoga isn’t a bad way to kick things off.

Go easy on yourself.

Power nap

If all else fails, punctuate your day with short power naps, no longer than 20 minutes.

Just make sure to do it when your boss isn’t trying to get in touch.

And there you have it.

Try it for a week, and see how you feel.

And remember, once you’ve strolled around the room, with a smoothie in hand, after downing a glass of water, you can always reward yourself with a trip to the coffee machine.

[source:cnet]