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Green tea replacing coffee? Understand the effects of each drink on the body

Coffee or green tea? This doubt is increasingly common among people who are looking for more energy in their daily lives or who want to reduce their coffee consumption without giving up a stimulating drink. Although...

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Green tea replacing coffee? Understand the effects of each drink on the body
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Coffee or green tea? This doubt is increasingly common among people who are looking for more energy in their daily lives or who want to reduce their coffee consumption without giving up a stimulating drink. Although both contain compounds capable of increasing alertness, they have different characteristics and can produce different effects on the body.

According to the professor of the Nutrition course at Unopar, Ana Caroline Fernandes Pereira, there is no universally better drink. "Coffee and green tea contain bioactive substances that can bring health benefits when consumed in a balanced way. The choice depends on the objectives, individual sensitivity to caffeine and each person's habits", he explains.

According to the expert, coffee is known for its highest concentration of caffeine, a substance that stimulates the central nervous system and can provide a feeling of energy and increased alertness. Green tea also contains caffeine, but in smaller quantities, as well as antioxidant compounds, such as catechins, and the amino acid L-theanine, associated with a state of relaxation without causing drowsiness.

According to the expert, replacing coffee with green tea is a possibility for those looking to diversify their eating habits or prefer a drink with a lower caffeine content. However, switching is not a rule and must consider individual needs.

"The most important thing is to observe how each drink fits into the routine and how the body responds to consumption. When consumed in moderation, both coffee and green tea can be part of a balanced diet", concludes the teacher.

Below, Ana Caroline explains some differences between the drinks:

Coffee usually provides a faster stimulus

Because it contains a greater amount of caffeine, coffee tends to increase alertness more intensely, and is frequently consumed to reduce the feeling of tiredness and improve momentary mood.

Green tea also contains caffeine

Although in smaller quantities, green tea has enough caffeine to contribute to alertness and disposition, in addition to offering other bioactive compounds naturally present in the plant, Camellia sinensis.

Both drinks have antioxidant compounds

Both coffee and green tea contain substances with antioxidant action, which help combat oxidative stress in the body when included in a balanced eating pattern.

The body's response varies from person to person

Some people may be more sensitive to caffeine and experience symptoms such as agitation, gastrointestinal discomfort or difficulty sleeping, regardless of the drink chosen.

Consumption time also deserves attention

Consuming caffeinated drinks close to bedtime can interfere with sleep quality, especially in people who are more sensitive to the stimulant.

Read Also: Do you wake up between 2am and 5am? The cause may be in blood sugar

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