Coffee vs tea: 5 factors that are sure to make you switch your morning beverage

The debate of coffee vs tea has been going on for years. Coffee gives you energy boost in the morning, while tea is gentler on the stomach.
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Start your mornings with a cup of tea. Image courtesy: Freepik
Purvi Kalra Updated: 13 Mar 2024, 15:30 pm IST
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Do you kickstart your day with a cup of coffee? While it can give you much-needed energy, have you ever wondered if tea may be a healthier option? This coffee vs tea debate has been going on for ages now.

While coffee is great for many things including lowering the risk of cancer and diabetes, tea, on the other hand, works well in managing blood pressure, stress levels as well as mental health. However, Health Shots got in touch with nutritionist Avni Kaul who says that it’s healthier to have tea, than coffee, in the morning. Read on to know how tea wins this coffee vs tea contest!

Is tea better than coffee?

While both coffee and tea can offer health benefits, there are certain reasons why some people might find tea to be a better choice in the morning compared to coffee.

reasons to swap coffee with tea in the morning
Make tea your morning drink. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

1. Lower caffeine content

if you are wondering what has more caffeine coffee or tea, then the answer is coffee. Caffeine surely gives you that pump of energy, but it is harmful if not taken in moderation. The caffeine content of tea is lesser than coffee, so drinking tea serves your body in a better way. “Tea usually, contains less caffeine than coffee. While caffeine can provide an initial energy boost, too much can lead to jitteriness, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. Tea offers a milder caffeine intake, reducing the risk of these side effects,” says Kaul.

2. Gentle awakening

Is coffee or tea better for you in the morning? Tea wins the debate here as well! We all feel a bit lazy when we wake up in the morning. Coffee provides an instant rush of energy which might not be that good considering that you feel sleepy headed in the morning. As per the expert, “Tea contains an amino acid known as L-theanine, which has a calming influence and can counterbalance the stimulating effects of caffeine. This can lead to a more gradual and gentle wake-up experience compared to the sometimes abrupt jolt from coffee”.

A cup of tea
Tea contributes to hydration. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

3. Hydration

Dehydration is a chronic problem with coffee if it is not handled well. It is more acute in winter, considering our fluid consumption lessens in the peak winter months. Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it could lead to increased urine production and potential dehydration. Tea, on the other hand, contributes to hydration, as it is primarily water. Staying hydrated in the morning is crucial for overall well-being.

Also read: Milk tea or black tea: What is better for you?

4. Antioxidant boost

Tea, particularly, green tea, is rich in antioxidants making it one of the best healthy drinks that supports the immune system and protects cells from damage. While coffee also has antioxidants, the types and amounts may differ, says Kaul.

5. Gastric sensitivity

When it comes to acidity and the coffee vs tea debate, coffee can be more acidic than tea, which may cause stomach discomfort for some individuals. Tea tends to be gentler on the stomach, making it a preferable option for those with acid sensitivity or digestive issues.

Eventually, the choice between coffee vs tea in the morning depends on individual preferences, tolerance to caffeine, and health considerations. Moderation is important and listening to your body’s response to each beverage can help you find the best fit for your morning routine.

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After testing her skill-set in the field of management and marketing, Purvi Kalra is exploring the world of turning thoughts to words. Her penchant for writing stems for being an avid reader all her life. Her work drives her to be better every day. ...Read More

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