For many people, getting their daily caffeine fix is a staple of their morning routine. However, many of us don’t know whether it is better to drink tea or coffee. To find out whether one is better than the other, we need to take a closer look at key differences between them.
Coffee certainly packs more of a stimulant punch than tea, with a single cup of coffee containing around double the caffeine of tea. This is because when coffee beans are brewed, they release around two-thirds of their caffeine content, whereas when a tea bag is steeped, it only releases one-third. Therefore, coffee drinkers might feel a stronger and quicker jolt of energy.
The amount of antioxidants found in coffee and tea differs too. Tea has more, with green tea and white tea especially being credited for their antioxidants which can help to keep us healthier. However, coffee still boasts certain antioxidants that can also contribute to our wellbeing. It is worth noting that both have considerable amounts, so it is unlikely that you are sacrificing your health no matter which you choose.
It is also important to factor in other ingredients when considering whether it is better to drink tea or coffee. Most coffees contain added ingredients such as cream, sugar, or artificial flavors. These are often intake without us realizing, contributing towards our calorie intake. By comparison, tea is often consumed without any added ingredients so packs fewer calories and carbohydrates.
Despite these differences, tea and coffee have one commonality: they both give us something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a morning pick-me-up or a chance to relax, either can provide you with an opportunity to savor a delicious hot drink. Therefore, it is ultimately up to the individual to decide which one is better.
What Are the Benefits & Side Effects of Tea & Coffee?
When deciding whether it’s better to drink tea or coffee, it’s important to understand the benefits and possible side effects associated with both. Starting with tea, green tea has been linked to numerous health benefits. In particular, studies suggest that drinking green tea can help to boost metabolism, reduce the risk of heart disease, and protect against certain types of cancer.
On the downside, some evidence suggests that drinking too much green tea could cause liver problems and disrupt your digestion. Similarly, too much caffeine from all sources can lead to irritability, heart palpitations, and digestive issues. Meanwhile, decaffeinated tea lacks the stimulating effects of caffeine, but still contains a range of beneficial antioxidants.
Coffee can provide a range of benefits too, from helping to protect us from stroke and diabetes to reducing the risk of developing certain cancers. However, it should be noted that the amount of caffeine in a cup of coffee can vary significantly. As such, it is a good idea to pay attention to how much caffeine you are consuming to avoid overstimulating your body. Additionally, caffeine sensitivity can differ greatly between people.
Which Option Is Best For Suiting Our Body Needs?
The type of drink you should choose ultimately depends on your individual needs. For instance, if you’re looking for a specific kind of boost, then coffee might be the better option. Conversely, if you are looking for something to relax with, then tea is likely to be more suitable. Additionally, if you’re concerned about your overall health, then it might be advisable to go for green tea.
If you need to be especially mindful of intake levels, then it may be worthwhile tracking the amount of caffeine you have had throughout the day. This will help to ensure that your body has a healthy degree of stimulation and to prevent overconsumption. Moreover, if you’re already feeling particularly energised or jittery, then drinking tea might help to even out your energy levels a little.
It is also a good idea to pay attention to the kinds of tea and coffee you are having. Different types come with varying amounts of caffeine, sugar, or carbs, so be sure to choose the one that suits your body’s needs. For example, if you are trying to reduce your sugar intake, then look for options without added sweeteners.
What Other Alternatives Are There?
For those who are looking for an alternative to caffeine, there are a number of other options available. Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger can provide a soothing and warm beverage without any stimulant effects. They can be steeped with honey or other natural sweeteners to sweeten the taste without copious amounts of sugar.
Alternatively, certain plant-based drinks can form part of a coffee or tea alternative. Chicory is often used as a coffee substitute, with its naturally sweet and nut-flavoured taste. Kombucha and other fermented teas are increasingly becoming popular too, with their lower-sugar content.
How Have The Consumption Levels Changed Over Time?
The consumption levels of tea and coffee have changed significantly over the past decades as health concerns have grown and trends have come and gone. For instance, studies suggest that in the UK coffee consumption is significantly higher than tea, with coffee drinkers usually having around 3.2 cups per day compared to just 2 cups of tea.
This follows global trends, where coffee consumption is increasing rapidly each year in a variety of countries. Conversely, tea consumption has remained fairly consistent for the past few years; however, green tea has seen a sharp rise in popularity in many countries, partly due to its perceived health benefits.
What Are Some of The Latest Trends?
As already mentioned, green tea is one of the most popular trends in the world of tea and coffee. Matcha lattes, in particular, have become popularized over recent years, while bubble tea has become something of an online phenomenon. Adaptogenic coffee and teas such as mushroom coffee and chaga tea are also becoming more popular, each claiming various health benefits.
In the coffee world, nitro-cold brews, whipped coffees and dalgona coffees are now on the rise, with many people making them at home. Similarly, espresso-based drinks such as cappuccinos and flat whites have seen a resurgence due to the increased popularity of artisanal cafes.
What Factors Should Consumers Consider?
When choosing whether it is better to drink tea or coffee, it is important to consider a number of factors. Starting with caffeine, consider how much you are comfortable drinking and select an appropriate type of drink. If you are looking for something to relax with, then decaffeinated options or herbal teas might be more suitable.
It is also worth looking out for added ingredients such as cream or sugar. If you are health conscious, then go for teas that are unlikely to contain many of these. Additionally, keep an eye out for any added health benefits that may be found in certain types of tea and coffee, such as green tea and mushroom coffee.
Lastly, consider personal preferences such as taste and aroma. Each type has its own unique qualities, so think about which one you would most look forward to drinking.
