For many of us, first thing in the morning, there’s nothing better for a pick-me-up than a hot cup of coffee. Others enjoy a soothing cup of hot tea to ease into the day. Most have their preference, but is there really one that’s healthier than the other? It’s an old argument, and there’s a lot of evidence for both sides.Coffee lovers will say that coffee is the only way to start the day. Its well-known jolt of caffeine is one of the main reasons it’s kept the top spot among morning beverages. When it comes to health, though, there are a lot of reasons to think about having a cup or two. Some studies have shown that coffee can help reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. It can also help combat type 2 diabetes (without adding sugar, of course). Coffee’s caffeine content is higher than tea, and this can help those with asthma, since it relaxes the lung’s airways.For tea lovers, this classic drink is the perfect way to relax and calm the nerves. It comes in many varieties, and there are several ways to brew it. One of the most well-known health benefits of tea is the antioxidants it contains. These are thought to help in preventing cancer. Antioxidants also fight inflammation, and can help prevent blood vessels from hardening. Tea is made from leaves that oxidize after harvesting, and the amount of oxidization is what determines the type of tea (black, green, white, red, etc.). Hot teas, especially green tea, might also protect cells from DNA damage. Tea has also been shown to boost brain health, and can reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease.Of course, too much of anything can be bad, and having too much caffeine can cause a number of problems. These include anxiety, heart palpitations, insomnia, restlessness, and nausea. High amounts of unfiltered coffee have been linked to high bad cholesterol levels. Coffee is also more acidic than tea, so it can cause issues for sensitive stomachs. Meanwhile, tea contains fluoride, which, in high amounts, can increase the risk of brittle bones.Overall, these both have their share of benefits, as well as risks in high amounts. There really is no clear winner in terms of health benefits, so it’s really up to you which one you prefer. Of course, both are healthier without added cream, sugar, and other extra calories. So, no matter how you start your morning, now you’ll know a bit more about what your beverage choice is doing for your body!
