Both drinks have their benefits, though the more subtle tea may offer more.
Coffee and tea are some of the world's most popular beverages, and for good reason, as several studies show that people who regularly drink coffee or tea live longer lives and have fewer health problems than their peers who don't. Although coffee often steals the limelight with its bold flavors and high-energy jolt, tea -- packed with unique compounds that promote calm focus -- has carved out its place as an equally powerful contender. Here's why tea might be the better choice for your next cup.
One of the main reasons it might be worth switching to tea is its lower caffeine content. Caffeine can sharpen focus and increase alertness for some, but for others, the side effects of overconsumption -- jitteriness, insomnia, and even heart palpitations -- can outweigh the benefits. The FDA recommends a daily caffeine limit of 400 milligrams, but some people may be much more sensitive to caffeine due to age, gender, genetics, or medications.
"The side effects of caffeine really are the primary reason you might want to get away from coffee," says Alexis Supan, a registered dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, Ohio.