Tea vs. Coffee: Health Benefits & Varieties

Tea and coffee are popular hot beverages throughout the world. For many people, drinking a cup of tea or coffee is part of the usual morning routine. There are many different options for consuming both beverages. Tea comes in seemingly infinite varieties--from green and black to oolong and tarragon. Coffee also has many different varieties and strengths--from Kona to Colombian. These popular beverages also have an array of health benefits.

Caffeine

• Both coffee and tea naturally contain caffeine, a substance that can help boost your mental awareness and ward off sleepiness.

Antioxidants in Tea

• Tea contains polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants that help protect your tissues from damage.

Antioxidants in Coffee

• Coffee also contains polyphenol antioxidants to promote general well-being. You don't even have to drink coffee for its antioxidants--smelling the aroma may provide the benefits of antioxidants.

Diabetes

• Drinking large amounts (about six 8-oz. cups) of coffee may help lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Arthritis

• A study published in the March 2002 issue of the Journal of Nutrition says the catechins in green tea may help to slow the breakdown of cartilage. This can be helpful for arthritis patients.