Between strong coffee and delicately fragrant herbal tea, is there really an optimal choice? Coffee wakes you up, motivates you, and energizes, while herbal tea soothes, refreshes when served cold, and comforts. But what do you do when both drinks have their advantages?
Coffee: More Than Just a Stimulant
For some, coffee is first and foremost about taste. The aroma of freshly ground coffee, the first sip that warms you… Some would even say there's nothing quite like the rich, slightly bitter flavour of a strong espresso or brewed coffee. The love for coffee’s taste often comes from the memories it evokes, like those long study nights with a cup in hand, when each sip seemed to give us the energy to go another hour. This flavour, tied to moments of pushing past limits, becomes a cherished ritual for many.
The Stimulating Benefits of Caffeine
Of course, the stimulating effect of caffeine is a big advantage of coffee. Studies show that caffeine can improve alertness and concentration—an ideal boost for those with busy days or intense workouts ahead. Health Canada recognizes that caffeine can improve performance and endurance in certain physical activities. A small dose before exercise can indeed be beneficial, but it should be kept moderate (1).
Precautions with Caffeine
It’s recommended not to exceed 400 mg of caffeine per day (about three cups of brewed coffee) to avoid side effects such as nervousness, palpitations, and sleep disturbances. This threshold may vary depending on individual sensitivity to caffeine (2).
Herbal Tea: More Than Just an Evening Beverage
Herbal tea is increasingly popular for its versatility and the variety of flavours it offers. Whether you enjoy peppermint, chamomile, or hibiscus, there’s a herbal tea for every time of day and taste preference. It adapts easily, whether hot or cold, and can even be a source of varied hydration. Since water is the drink of choice according to Canada’s Food Guide, herbal tea is an excellent option (3).
A Caffeine-Free Alternative
Unlike coffee, herbal tea is caffeine-free, making it perfect for those who prefer to stay calm or who need to avoid caffeine. While often associated with relaxation or sleep, iced herbal tea can also be a great refreshing choice during the day.
An Endless Array of Flavours
The variety of blends means there’s a flavour for everyone. For example, Floèm, a Quebec-based company, offers a range of natural, local herbal teas—a fantastic option for boosting hydration or discovering new, innovative flavours from the fields and northern forests.
Enjoy a 20% discount on Floèm infusions through KoalaPro Premium.
No Best Choice, Just the One That Suits You
Between coffee and herbal tea, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice depends on your day, your tastes, and your needs. For those who enjoy the energizing effects of coffee, it’s the perfect companion to start the day or give a boost before physical activity. Herbal tea, on the other hand, is a versatile and hydrating choice, ideal for any time of day.
Need Advice to Find the Right Balance?
Still undecided about incorporating coffee or herbal tea into your daily routine, or did this article raise some questions? Whether you want to better manage your caffeine intake, optimize your hydration, or adjust your drinks to fit your needs, feel free to make an appointment with a nutritionist-dietitian from TeamNutrition. We’re here to help you find the balance that works best for your lifestyle and personal goals.
Sources:
Government of Canada. (n.d.). Caffeine in Foods. Health Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/food-saf…
Government of Canada. (n.d.). Caffeinated Energy Drinks. Health Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/food-nutrition/foods-su…
Government of Canada. (n.d.). Make Water Your Drink of Choice. Canada's Food Guide. https://food-guide.canada.ca/en/healthy-eating-recommendations/make-wat…
