Coffee and green tea are two very popular drinks. Both contain caffeine, antioxidants and are said to help increase energy. Learn about the differences and similarities between coffee and tea and learn which is better for your health.
Coffee
Coffee, once colloquially thought to destroy the heart, is actually healthier than you might realize. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which may help protect against type 2 diabetes, Parkinson's disease and some types of cancer. Some people swear that coffee keeps them regular bowel movements. The caffeine content of coffee is great when you need a short burst of energy and focus, say before hitting the gym or giving a big presentation at work.
Coffee and tea are two of the most common drinks in the worldPhoto: Brigitte Tohm / Unsplash
Green tea
Green tea is better for easier relaxation and subtle increase in energy. It is full of polyphenols that protect against cancer, but it also helps burn fat and lower cholesterol. It is a good source against various diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and can also reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. It's green tea full of antioxidants, which help detoxify the body, slow down aging and fight inflammation. It contains a lot of L-theanine and amino acids. It helps with relaxation, improves sleep and reduces anxiety.
Which drink is better to drink on a daily basis
Both coffee and green tea are very different in terms of structure, flavonoids and antioxidants. Nutritionists point out that the difference between the two drinks lies in the personality of the caffeine - and how the body personally reacts to it. For example, if you have no side effects from caffeine consumption, but you have acid reflux, green tea may be a better choice for you. If you hate the taste of green tea and coffee makes you nervous, it's safe to stick with it, but just cut back or drink decaffeinated.
Green tea is full of antioxidants that help detoxify the body.Photo: Mike Kenneally/Unsplash
What can happen if you switch drinks
It all depends on the caffeine. If you're switching from green tea to coffee, you may notice that you're a bit more nervous as usual. But switching from coffee to tea can cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms. According to nutritionists, this can cause headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle aches and even flu-like nausea. So try to gradually reduce your intake until you no longer feel symptoms. If caffeine is still a problem even after you've switched to drinking tea, consider switching to tea or coffee without caffeine. Listen to your body and decide what is better for you and also depending on the reason why you drink coffee or tea in the first place: it increases your energy, it benefits your health or it just goes with your routine.
Tips for switching from coffee to green tea
Drink green tea in the morning to wake up your brain or during an afternoon energy slump as it reduces stress hormones. But you should know that you should not drink tea right before going to bed. Drink it for a few hours before going to bed.
