Tea may be a healthier alternative than coffee for a caffeine boost.
Sure, the non-fat, no-whip mocha latte from Starbucks may act as the trendy accessory to your designer bag, but there’s an important question to consider: is coffee all that healthy for you? In recent years, science has been continually flip-flopping on the issue; however, Nutrition Nut is here to clear the air.
According to WebMD, there are more benefits to drinking coffee than the harmful side effects. But just because coffee contains good stuff does not mean it is good for you. Two or more cups of coffee a day increases your risk of heart disease, according to Mayo Clinic preventive medicine specialist Dr. Donald Hensrud.
Dr. Hensrud stresses everything in moderation. He says that coffee may not be entirely harmful to one’s body, however, when it is accompanied by milk, cream and sugar, it adds unnecessary calories and fat to your diet. In addition, four to seven cups of coffee a day can cause severe problems to one’s body from an extreme caffeine intake, such as elevated stress, irritability, anxiety, sleeplessness and digestive complications.
During finals week, I am usually doubling up on espresso from Starbucks in Library West. Though, on a day-to-day basis I find my caffeine fix from tea. Chai spiced black tea, green tea, earl grey, berry white tea, you name it – I’ve tried it. You could say I’m a self-acclaimed tea connoisseur.
Tea is one of the healthiest drinks, containing more antioxidants than any other beverage and supplying your body with a range on nutrients. Also, all of the teas listed above contain strong amounts of caffeine. Though not equal to espresso, these teas are sure to get your mind awake and focused. I drink two to four cups of tea daily for energy and vitality. Tea has been proven to boost the immune system and prevent various cancers.
I advise you to skip your trendy latte and instead order a hot or even iced tea. There is a vast range of flavors and strengths found in types of tea. Find a cup that suits your taste buds and drink it regularly. I often add agave nectar – a healthier substitute to honey and adds a touch of sweetness. Nutrition Nut promises you will notice an improvement in your health and energy level if you continue to drink tea daily.
Skip the coffee and try a sip of one of Tazo’s organic blends next time you need a Starbucks fix!