Coffee or tea? It’s the question that divides the nation. Some start their day with a strong cup of Joe, while others find motivation only after a cup of tea. Regardless of which you prefer, people these days are wondering which is better for their health. Is coffee really worse for you than tea? There’s been a whole lot of evidence out there recently to show that, whichever you love, you’ll be giving your well-being a boost with your morning pick-me-up.
Packed With Antioxidants
One of the reasons why both coffee and tea are considered beneficial to our health is that they are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are chemicals that are found in plant-based foods. When antioxidants enter our bodies, they can protect healthy tissue from free radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species or oxidants. Over time, these free radicals damage cells, leading to diseases such as cancer. Antioxidants, meanwhile, can mop up those free radicals, stopping them in their tracks.
Flavonoids In Tea
Tea leaves originate from the Camellia sinensis plant. Depending on how the leaves are processed, they will either be green or black tea; however, both types contain flavonoids. Green tea is more popular in the East, while black tea is more popular in the West. Nevertheless, whichever tea you prefer, you are taking in 20 times more antioxidants from flavonoids every day than those who never drink tea. In fact, tea contains numerous flavonoids that fight disease, which is comparable to the amount found in vegetables and fruits.
What Illnesses Can Tea Combat?
Studies have been conducted on animals, demonstrating that tea can help prevent blood clots, lower cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, and combat allergies and inflammation. Both green and black tea are thought to have the potential to reduce the incidence of ovarian cancer. Green tea may help prevent breast cancer and reduce the risk of developing heart disease.
What About Coffee?
Since tea has so many benefits, you might think that you should switch your Java to Earl Grey. However, that’s not necessarily the case. For the millions of people who are addicted to the brown stuff, there’s no need to worry since coffee is the top antioxidant source in the average American’s diet. Containing antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and quinines, it is also a source of trigonelline, an antibacterial compound that contributes to the distinctive aroma of coffee. Coffee can reduce the incidence of colon and liver cancer, Type 2 diabetes, gout, and Parkinson’s disease, according to recent research.
What About The Caffeine Content?
Both tea and coffee contain caffeine, and this worries some people, especially those with hypertension. The amount of caffeine in tea and coffee depends on the size of the serving and the method of preparation. On average, an 8-oz brewed coffee contains about 85mg of caffeine, while a cup of tea contains around 40mg of caffeine. Although caffeine is ideal for stimulating your nervous system and brain, too much of it could cause your blood pressure to rise and cause insomnia. It’s therefore best to avoid coffee and tea at night.
Are Coffee And Tea Calorie-Free?
While tea and coffee are both free of calories, it’s important to remember that the milk, sugar, syrups, and cream that you add are full of calories. If you add 2 teaspoons of sugar and a tablespoon of cream to your coffee, you’re adding up to 6g of fat and 80 calories. Adding some sugary syrup and whipped cream, the calories really start to mount up. If you’re concerned about weight gain, consider drinking your hot beverage without milk and sugar.
So, Which Is Best?
Since scientists still can’t say for certain which is better, coffee or tea, it’s up to you which you prefer. In fact, why not have both during your day, so you can benefit from all the antioxidants? If you’ve decided that coffee is the perfect morning drink for you, head over to this website and find out everything you need to know about choosing the right coffee maker for you.
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