Should you have a passion for coffee or be selective about your tea, we all appreciate a soothing hot beverage that assists us in managing our daily tasks. As a result, it’s unsurprising that we spend a significant portion of our day in coffee shops and cafés. Therefore, whether you’re fascinated by coffee or tea, or just interested in learning more, you’ve stumbled upon the ideal article.
But can liking either of the two be something objective? Is there a good way to measure what one has over the other? Here, we find out. But first, we’ll need to look into some background and history on them before we even proceed.
Here are a few facts about coffee and tea that would be helpful.
Coffee
- It is the most consumed beverage in the world
I’m sure the presence of coffee shops and fast food chains selling coffee have made it rather obvious. Everyone from millennials to boomers just love to drink coffee – and for good reason! Coffee doesn’t only taste and smell awesome, it’s also a much healthier alternative sodas or other sugar-filled beverages.
- There’s more to coffee than Arabica and Robusta
People may already be aware of the two types of commonly cultivated coffee beans (namely Arabica and Robusta) but there are more beans out there that you can always give a try. In Southeast Asia for example, there’s Liberica, which is used in stronger variants of coffee. If you’re looking to try something more, then it’s probably a good idea to give it a shot!
- Smelling coffee can wake you up
It’s amazing how you can already feel awake when you just take a whiff of coffee, but there’s actually a scientific explanation to this. You see, studies have shown that the stimulant properties of coffee also extend to its aroma. So, if you’ve saved time by opting for a k-cup and then don’t have time to finish drinking it, giving it a good whiff could help get you through the day.
Tea
- Tea was extremely valuable during the Colonial Era
As one of the most traded commodities during at the time, it’s no surprise that tea was once extremely valuable, especially among emerging world powers. With leaves originating in Asia, it’s also popular in Asian countries, even to this day. And you thought only the British love their tea – those in China, the Middle East, and South Asia love it as well.
- It takes up to 2,000 leaves to make a cup of tea
Tea requires that perfect blend of taste and stimulation. While it may not be as strong as coffee, sometimes, it’s all about the flavour. That’s why it takes a lot of tea leaves to even make a single well-rounded cup of tea.
- Tea pairing is a thing
Just like wine pairing, some people love to pair their tea as well. This is no surprise, since tea can become as flavourful with plenty of other food items and snacks. So, if you want to be a tea aficionado, might as well try pairing different types of tea with different type of food!
Which One is Better?
If you’re curious or just want to know which one’s the better pick for you, here is where we find out about the different advantages (and disadvantages) one has over the other. Are you ready to find out? Then we can start now!
Advantages of Coffee
- Coffee can help prevent type-2 diabetes
Some studies suggest that coffee may be helpful in preventing type-2 diabetes. This means that if you’re an avid drinker of coffee, then you may have a lesser chance of contracting the disease.
- Coffee can improve your memory for the short-term
Have you ever had moment where you just become so forgetful? Well, coffee may help prevent these moments from ever happening, as its stimulant properties can help boost the part of your brain that stores short-term memories.
- It can help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
Since it aids in boosting your memory, then it can also stunt the development of Alzheimer’s later in life. So, if you’re looking to live a long, memory-filled life, then coffee could be your best bet.
Disadvantages of Coffee
- Coffee can cause teeth discoloration
I know, for many of you, yellowing teeth is something minor. However, if you want to look your absolute best, then yellow teeth are definitely a no-no. Discoloration is one thing to consider if you’re an avid coffee drinker.
- It can decrease blood flow
Coffee has often been linked with the rise is cholesterol levels, so that’s another thing to consider. Over-consumption of coffee can decrease blood flow, leading to heart problems in the future.
Advantages of Tea
- Tea can protect against cancer cells
Although this is yet to be proven, studies suggest that tea can aid in the prevention of certain types of cancer. Tea contains antioxidants which may help in fighting off cancer cells and in turn, prevent cancer from even developing.
- Tea can help lower stress levels
Those who drink black tea frequently are know to be less-stressed than others, simply because of the properties tea has. So, if ever there are days when you just feel the pressure, try to kick back, relax, and enjoy a cup of tea.
- Tea can help strengthen your teeth
As opposed to the discolouration caused by coffee, tea may contain fluoride that helps strengthen your teeth. While it may not keep them pearly white, at least you’ll have some all-around healthy teeth.
Disadvantages of Tea
- Tea can contain pesticides
As tea comes from leaves, then it’s most likely more exposed to pesticides and other harmful factors. Whenever you’re conscious about where your tea comes from, all you need to make sure is that it’s organic and comes from sources that don’t use chemicals.
- Adding milk may decrease tea’s efficiency
Lots of people around the world add milk to their tea, and it’s understandable, since may would want to have that creamy goodness. However, milk can decrease the efficiency of tea’s beneficial properties. As much as possible, you’d best have your tea black or milk-free.
Have you decided on which one is better for you? Then good! Whatever your pick is, always consider what it can do for you.
