Little Belle's Mama

Coffee is one of those drinks that people seem to adore. Some can’t start their day without it, others drink multiple cups just to keep going, and many talk about it like it’s some magical elixir that instantly boosts energy and focus. I wish I could say the same, but unfortunately, coffee and I just don’t get along. No matter how many times I’ve tried to enjoy it, I always end up regretting it.

While most people feel awake and energized after a cup of coffee, I experience the opposite. Instead of a productive burst of energy, I get headaches, palpitations, and an overall sense of discomfort. My heart races, my hands feel shaky, and instead of feeling ready to take on the day, I just want to lie down until the feeling passes. It’s frustrating because I see others enjoying their coffee, chatting excitedly about their favorite brews, and getting that caffeine boost that I simply cannot handle.

Sometimes, I even feel jealous of those who can drink coffee without any issues. They get to indulge in all the different flavors, the trendy café drinks, and the comforting morning ritual of holding a warm cup of coffee in their hands. Because of this, I’ve tried multiple times to see if maybe I could become a coffee drinker too. Every now and then, I convince myself that maybe this time will be different, that maybe my body will finally accept coffee the way it seems to accept tea. But every single time, I end up feeling terrible, reminding myself once again that coffee just isn’t for me.

One of the biggest problems for me is that coffee interferes with my sleep. Even if I drink it early in the day, I find it harder to fall asleep at night. My mind feels restless, and my body refuses to relax. I know that for many, coffee is their best friend in the morning, but for me, it’s an enemy that follows me into the night. No amount of cozy blankets or calming music can undo the effects of caffeine once it’s in my system.

Because of all this, I’ve had to accept that I will never be a coffee drinker. Instead, I choose tea as my go-to hot drink. Tea gives me the warmth and comfort I seek without the overwhelming side effects. It’s soothing, gentle on my body, and comes in so many varieties that I never get bored. Whether it’s a cup of green tea in the morning or a calming herbal tea before bed, I feel good drinking it rather than regretting it.

Hot chocolate would be another great alternative, but unfortunately, it’s too sweet for me. As much as I love the taste, I know that too much sugar isn’t good for my health. So while it’s a nice treat every now and then, it’s not something I can have regularly. That’s why tea remains my reliable choice—a warm, comforting drink that doesn’t make me feel awful afterward.

At this point, I’ve stopped trying to force myself to like coffee. It’s just not meant for me, and that’s okay. I can still enjoy the ritual of a warm drink in the morning or a cozy cup in the evening, just with something that actually makes me feel good.

Do you have a drink that doesn’t agree with you, even though others seem to love it? Or do you have a favorite warm drink that you can’t go without? I’d love to hear what your go-to choice is and why it works for you.