how each of them affects your body and health

In the eternal debate between coffee lovers and tea advocates, not only personal tastes play a fundamental role. These two ancient drinks offer more than just taste and aroma; It’s also about how they affect our bodies and ultimately our health. Coffee, black as night and superbly stimulating, and tea with its variety of tones and subtleties. have been the subject of numerous studies

which seek to describe its effect on the human body. In this analysis, without allowing for the subjectivity of tastes, we seek to scientifically understand how these drinks affect our health.

For decades, science has been exploring what lies behind the cup of coffee or tea we drink every day. Does it reduce the risk of certain diseases? Can overconsumption be harmful? What are the long-term consequences? Although each is separate may react differently to them

, there are general patterns and important discoveries that can set us on the path to well-being. With more than 30 years of experience in digital journalism and always with a strong focus on science, we now look at the contrasting effects of these two popular drinks.

CAFFEINE LOAD: STIMULATION AND ITS LIMITS

Everyone knows the stimulating properties of coffee. Caffeine, its main alkaloid, acts on the central nervous system, increasing the ability to concentrate and reducing the feeling of fatigue. However, as they say, the dose makes the poison. Excessive coffee consumption can lead to side effects such as insomnia, nervousness, or even increased heart rate in susceptible individuals. In addition, caffeine has a diuretic effect, which, although it may have a positive effect on kidney function, This also carries the risk of dehydration. if it is not compensated by adequate fluid intake.

Absorption of caffeine is rapid, with effects beginning 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion and peaking in the bloodstream after about an hour. But it’s not just the amount of caffeine that matters; so is the moment of consumption. Drinking coffee during the day or evening can disrupt sleep, so experts often recommend enjoying this drink in the morning or afternoon.

The relationship between coffee and diseases such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease or some forms of cancer has been studied in various studies. There is often an inverse relationship between moderate coffee consumption and the risk of these pathologies, although it is important to understand that correlation does not imply causation and lifestyle in general. plays a decisive role In health.

When it comes to tea, the second most well-known alkaloid after caffeine is theine, which is actually the same chemical compound but is often present in lower concentrations. The body absorbs tea caffeine slowerproviding a longer-lasting, more subtle energy effect without the sudden peaks and valleys typically associated with coffee.

ANTIOXIDANT BENEFITS AND CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS

Both coffee and tea are rich in antioxidants, although the types and amounts of these drinks vary. Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and participate in the aging process and in the development of diseases.

Green tea in particular is known to be high in catechins, a type of antioxidant that has gained attention for its potential to improve endothelial function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological studies show that regular consumption of green tea is associated with a lower incidence of certain types of cancer, although, as always, this is reasonable. take this data with a critical eye and in the context of a balanced diet.

For its part, coffee also contains a list of antioxidant compounds, including chlorogenic acid and quinine. The search for a direct link between coffee consumption and cardiovascular protection has yielded mixed results, with some studies indicating a modest positive effect and others emphasizing possible risks associated with excessive consumptionfor example, increased blood pressure.

CONSUMER CULTURE: DEMYTHIFICATION OF MYTHS

The coffee and tea culture is as old as it is diverse, and with it has come many myths and folk beliefs. For example, there are those who claim that coffee is bad for bones, although in fact scientific evidence does not conclusively support this claim. It is true that coffee can interfere with calcium absorption, but the effect is minimal and has no impact. seems to be enough to affect bone health significantly in people who maintain adequate calcium intake.

In the same way, tea is called the most “healthy” drink, but this opinion should be qualified. Although tea may have beneficial properties, its effect on overall health depends on many factors, including the variety, preparation method, and amount of tea consumed. In addition, coffee and tea may contain harmful substances if they are not grown and processed properly, the growing trend towards organic and fair trade products helps mitigate this aspect.

Deciding whether to choose coffee or tea involves taking into account both personal taste and knowledge about their health effects. There is no clear cut answer to which is “better” as both have their pros and cons. What we can say is that coffee and tea, consumed in moderation and in the context of a healthy lifestyle, They can be part of a varied and balanced diet.promoting our well-being without significant risks.

EFFECTS ON DIGESTION AND METABOLIC EFFECTS: FRIENDS OR ENEMIES OF THE STOMACH?

We often wonder how coffee and tea affect our digestive system? The answer, as with many aspects of nutrition, is complex. Coffee has been identified as a possible stomach irritant and is associated with heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux in some people. However, aside from these specific disadvantages, moderate coffee consumption should not harm your gastrointestinal health. Additionally, some studies show that coffee may promote intestinal motility. The key, again, is moderation and knowing your body.

In terms of metabolic rate, caffeine is known for its ability to increase basal metabolic rate (the amount of energy the body burns at rest) and moderately promote weight loss in the context of a controlled diet. But, as with any active substance, it is important not to oversimplify by considering coffee as ‘magic potion’ lose weight.

On the other hand, tea, especially green tea, has gained fame as an ally in the fight against excess weight. Its compounds, catechins and caffeine, have demonstrated synergistic potential to increase energy expenditure and promote fat oxidation. Although it is very important to emphasize that no eating or drinking alone This is a wonderful solution for losing weight.