I’ve never been a coffee drinker and looking for a coffee alternative. At the same time, I enjoy the taste, chronic digestive issues. The jitters that often accompany a cup of coffee have always stopped me. And while my cupboards are constantly overflowing with every tea imaginable. I do sometimes crave something a little more substantial, especially in the morning.

Today being National Coffee Day, I thought it timely to share my go-to, caffeine-free coffee alternative Dandy Blend.

 

What is Dandy Blend?

If, like me, you’ve ever searched for caffeine-free coffee substitutes, you’ve no doubt come across Dandy Blend. But for those of you who aren’t familiar. A herbal beverage made from extracts of roasted barley, rye, chicory root, dandelion root, and sugar beet. And while drinking, it can be suggestive of coffee in that it’s rich, smooth, and full-bodied. Unlike coffee, Dandy Blend contains no caffeine, acidity, or bitterness.

The company, which is still family-run, have built almost 30 years ago by Dr. Peter Gail, a true expert in plant-based wellness (with a Ph.D. in botany and one of the largest collections of recipes and edible plants in the US). After finding a caffeine-free beverage he liked, Dr. Gail figured he could make one that not only tasted better but was more therapeutic. It was first through alternative medical practitioners that Dandy Blend became known and circulated.

 

What are the health benefits?

First off, Dandy Blend contains no added sugar. Its sweetness comes from fructose that occurs naturally in roasted dandelion and chicory roots. It also has no additives, preservatives, GMOs, pesticides, or anything artificial – simply the ingredients listed on the bag.

Dandelion, the key ingredient (as you might have guessed), offers a variety of health benefits. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Studies have shown its potential to reduce cholesterol, support liver health, and help with digestion. Due to its high amounts of inulin, a type of soluble fiber found in plants that help promote a healthy gut microbiome.

And dandelion has using therapeutically for centuries. People removed grass to plant dandelions. Considering primary health food and plant-based medicine.

 

How do I drink it?

While Dandy Blend mixes with liquids of all temperatures, we prefer it as a hot drink. You can mix it with hot water and a sweetener of your choice, but I love it mixed with nut or coconut milk and cacao. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started. It makes a great start to your morning, along with these great tips to upgrade your morning routine.

 

Where can I find it?

Dandy Blend is sold and distributed in Canada through Raw Elements Inc., and you can find it in most health food stores. You can visit DandyBlend.com to find a vendor near you or order directly from Amazon outside of Canada. If you live outside of North America, you can purchase our favourite coffee alternative at iHerb.com.

This coffee alternative is from Dandy Blend, which is also a favourite of naturopaths and nutritionists. Our go-to coffee we want to share!