Coffee and tea both boast beneficial properties that make them healthier options if enjoyed without any sugars or creamers added to them. Bollig notes that both beverages should be enjoyed in moderation – just remember they contain caffeine which can provide energy boost and alertness boost as well as antioxidants which fight free radicals that contribute to oxidative stress, increasing risk factors for chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Coffee contains more caffeine than tea, making it the better option for those sensitive to stimulants such as caffeine. Caffeine can help focus and combat fatigue, but too much of it may cause negative side effects like jitteriness or disrupted sleep patterns. Tea contains significantly less caffeine than coffee while also boasting amino acid L-theanine which promotes relaxation and calmness.

Studies conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicate that drinking tea can improve heart health by reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and decreasing your risk of diabetes by decreasing glucose levels and inhibiting fat accumulation. Tea also contains antioxidants beneficial to brain health that may protect against neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Tea and coffee both contain calories when made with milk and/or sugar added, so be mindful of portion sizes when selecting these beverages. When ordering at cafes or brewing at home, look for low-fat or unsweetened alternatives with reduced calorie counts to help cut back overall calorie counts.

Some may worry about the pesticides used to cultivate coffee beans, but according to Bollig, its structure prevents most chemicals from coming in contact with its beans. It’s also possible to purchase organic coffee to further minimize your exposure.

Both coffee and tea can provide an invigorating morning boost, but finding the ideal beverage depends on your own individual preferences and needs. For those not sensitive to caffeine, either beverage can be beneficial; but for those wanting to reduce calories consumed per beverage or seek healthier alternatives, switching to tea may be more suitable than coffee.

The best way to determine which beverage is healthier for you is through making an informed choice based on your individual needs and goals. While neither coffee nor tea are intrinsically unhealthy drinks, if they’re part of your daily routine it’s essential that they be carefully selected as the healthier options.

For more information about how food affects you and how its ingredients can have an effect, visit Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s Food Safety Guide.