For many people around the world, it’s not uncommon to drink a cup of coffee to start the day — or in some cases, to need multiple cups to make it through the day. Although drinking a moderate amount of caffeine on a regular basis isn’t unhealthy, there are plenty of reasons you might want to curb your consumption.

Whether you’re pregnant or just tired of relying on (and paying for) the world’s most popular drug, here are some alternatives that will keep you perky throughout the day.

Your Daily Recommended Dose of Water

Yes, water. It’s the world’s most abundant liquid, it’s necessary for human survival, and there’s a good chance you’re not getting enough of it. You don’t need to have crossed the Sahara Desert to be dehydrated, as even mild forms of dehydration are subtle, yet bothersome, in their effects.

Symptoms of mild dehydration include fatigue and headaches, so if you’re reaching for a cup of joe to perk you up during the day, it might be a glass of water that you really need. How much water you need to drink depends on a number of factors, but between 8 to 12 cups each day should do the trick.

Regular Exercise

It might not be a drink that goes down as easily as a lukewarm cup of coffee, but daily exercise does wonders for your energy, as well as your overall health. Don’t think that you need to be sweating bullets for hours on end in order to feel the effects, either. A light half an hour of walking or biking can surprisingly do a lot for you.

Although it may be difficult to stick to a regular exercise schedule at first, the secret to staying consistent and not overworking yourself. In no time, you’ll not only feel the perky effects of being in better shape, but you’ll also find it easier to do your exercises.

Energy-Boosting Nutrients

Drinking plenty of water and getting regular exercise will do wonders for your energy levels, but you can still do a bit better by paying attention to the macronutrients that you consume. While understanding the ins and outs of a proper diet takes some work and differs from person to person, there are still some go-to nutrients you can rely on to give you a much-needed boost. As always, avoid processed foods and instead rely on whole, natural foods that are rich with vitamins and antioxidants. So, when you need a snack, reach for an apple instead of an energy bar.

It’s important to remember that, while a little caffeine isn’t all that bad, the effects you feel from taking it are short-lived. By eating right, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of water, you won’t need to rely on your daily dose of coffee. Plus, with all the additional effects that come with living a healthier lifestyle, you’ll feel better than ever and probably wonder why you needed caffeine in the first place.

[Image via Getty]