Coffee and tea are two of the world’s most beloved beverages, each boasting potential health benefits. But which beverage is healthier: coffee or tea? Although both drinks have their own distinct advantages, portion control remains key in maintaining a balanced diet. Incorporating either beverage as part of such an eating plan should include limiting added sugar and high-fat creamers; additionally if caffeine makes you anxious or restless consider switching for something with lower caffeine content such as decaffeinated alternatives.

Coffee and tea both contain antioxidants to fight free radicals that damage cells and lead to disease and illness, though tea contains slightly fewer than coffee does; both remain excellent sources of this essential nutrient.

Coffee and tea differ significantly because coffee is made from roasted beans while tea is composed of leaves exposed to air for various lengths of time, giving each variety of tea its distinctive flavors. Common types include green, oolong and black varieties ranging in caffeine content between low (green and oolong teas) to high amounts (black teas).

Both tea and coffee have been linked with reduced risk of heart attack, with coffee’s antioxidants potentially amplifying this benefit. Both beverages can help lower blood pressure while decreasing stroke risks; furthermore, coffee may also provide protection from Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases although some research indicates it could increase depression risk.

But both drinks have their downsides; those who are genetically predisposed to having slow caffeine metabolism should limit how much caffeine they consume; both coffee and tea raise cortisol levels (the stress hormone), leading to bloating, headaches and changes in mood as well as potentially increasing miscarriage risk for pregnant women who consume coffee during early gestation.

If you’re searching for a healthier way to enjoy your morning beverage, why not give homemade iced coffee a try? Not only can it save money and leave no room for questionable prepackaged flavor syrups at Starbucks! Simply use coffee ice instead of regular ice and splash in some low-fat milk; adding cinnamon or other spice as desired adds even more flavor!