Coffee vs Tea — Which Is Better For Your Health?

Posted by Dr. Della Parker     on January 12, 2018

It’s likely you’ve read somewhere that either tea or coffee was the warm beverage of choice for health-minded folks. And despite its conclusion, that article would most likely be right. There are many health benefits associated with each of these a.m. staples, and finding the “healthiest” one depends largely on the person ingesting it and their chemistry. Since studies in this area tend to contradict each other, consider these proven benefits provided by each drink and decide for yourself which you prefer, health-wise.

Benefits of Coffee Include:

-Possible reduction the incidence of dementia or Alzheimer’s

-Possible reduction in the risk of type 2 diabetes

-Caffeine can improve circulation

-Caffeine can help reduce symptoms of asthma by relaxing the lung’s airways

Major studies have overwhelmingly shown that coffee drinkers don’t necessarily live longer or die sooner, so even the most dedicated coffee drinkers among us can carry on sipping their java with little fear of any negative health repercussions, save for caffeine induced anxiety (moderation!).

However, the Benefits of Tea Include:

– Antioxidants that might aid in cancer prevention

-Polyphenols in green tea, and theaflavins and thearubigins in black tea, contain free radicals that might protect cells from DNA damage. (we’re talking brewed hot tea, not processed, packaged sweetened tea-beverages)

-White teas can help prevent obesity

-Green Tea has been shown to reduce the rate of esophageal cancer in women by 60%

Moderation is key when enjoying these drinks as each has positive and negative attributes (too hot tea can actually increase the risk of esophageal cancer and certain coffee roasts can contain carcinogens).

Searching online for answers will only get you so far, so take time to make your health a priority this year. See Dr. Della Parker for a free consultation or call 503-344-6631.