You need a jumpstart first thing in the morning. Or you want a relaxing, energy-boosting break later in the day. Where do you turn? What’s your go to? Tea or coffee?
Whether it’s a cup of Joe or a cup of tea, Americans are drinking more year after year.
Current industry statistics show 159 million Americans are daily tea drinkers. The coffee aficionados among us are drinking more than 400 million cups of coffee every day.
And that’s a lot of caffeine, whether it’s tea or coffee. Given the numbers, health concerns are natural.
So which one is better for your health? What are the health benefits of drinking tea vs coffee? Read on to get the latest facts and find out why moderate tea and coffee consumption is actually healthy for you.
Tea vs Coffee: Which Is Healthier for You
The first thing to know is that tea and coffee both have significant levels of caffeine and antioxidants.
Let’s take a look at what that means in real terms. What are the real world health benefits of drinking tea? Of drinking coffee?
We all know caffeine is a stimulant that makes us feel more energetic and alert. How about antioxidants? Those are vital chemicals that can help ward off a variety of diseases.
Amount of Caffeine in Tea and Coffee
According to the Mayo Clinic, a cup of brewed coffee has twice as much caffeine as a cup of black tea. Is that good, or bad?
In moderation, about 4 – 5 cups a day, that’s a good thing.
Beyond caffeine’s energy-boosting qualities, studies show other likely health benefits.
Likely Health Benefits of Caffeine
Studies show likely links to the positive benefits of caffeine. Caffeine can reduce the likelihood of developing a variety of diseases.
Among these diseases are Type 2 Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Reduced incidence of several cancers (colon, liver, and uterine) also appears likely.
And the Antioxidants?
Antioxidants slow down the oxidative degradation of our cells. That’s an important tool, helping stave off strokes and heart disease, two chronic degenerative diseases.
Occurring in a variety of foods from fruits and vegetables to chocolate and red wine, antioxidants contribute to good health. Coffee and tea are particularly good sources, with coffee again coming out ahead of tea.
Once again, remember moderation is key. No more than 4 – 5 cups of tea or coffee per day.
A Good Cup of Coffee
Now that you know about the health benefits of a good cup of coffee, here’s a great place to start exploring the world of coffee. Read this blog on coffee to find out more.
From light roasts to dark roasts, coffees from counties around the world can give a healthy boost to your day.
Tea vs Coffee: the Bottom Line
In the tea vs coffee face-off, coffee wins on the caffeine and antioxidant fronts, giving you more of both per serving.
Whether it’s coffee or tea though, remember, drink in moderation. No more than 4 – 5 cups per day!
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