Go water! I find it helps me stay focused and energized over the long haul. My drinking routine is based on the assumption[0] that thinking burns as much energy as physical work, and thus I need to stay hydrated.

[0] Related comic: http://wondermark.com/930/

Considering that coffee and beer are both 90+% water, I'd say that you're not getting the most bang for your buck!

I've been starting the day with a tall glass of water mixed with 2-3 teaspoons of Chia Seed. I won't attribute super powers to it, but it has started me off with a bit more energy than coffee.

I'm usually water-only but when I do have occasional coffee or beer with work I notice that I focus a lot better. It doesn't last and I'm not sure if it's more productive but I get a lot done.

This article makes me feel like I'm sitting around watching people snort Extremis.

Yes, you miss out. :-)

Here is one of my standard references. tl;dr: According to present understanding, coffee is surprisingly healthy. (For most people; some have problems with e.g. stomach or their enzymes are bad at breaking down caffeine.)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_effects_of_coffee