Green Tea vs Coffee (II)

Fight Depression

In a Harvard study published in 2011, women who drank 4 or more cups of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of becoming depressed. And in another study, it was found that 53% drinking 4 or more cups of coffee per day were less likely to die by suicide. 

Feel calm

L-theanine is an amino acid naturally present in green tea. This compound is known to affect the brain, increasing feelings of calm alertness. 

L-theanine increases the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which has anti-anxiety effects. It also increases dopamine and the production of alpha waves in the brain.

L-theanine, especially when combined with caffeine, can improve attention and brain function. Not only in the short term, but also protect the brain as age.

Protect from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia

The catechin compounds in green tea can lower the risk of dementia, a common neurodegenerative disorder in older adults.  

Besides the catechin compounds in green tea, several studies show that coffee drinkers can have up to a 65% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease, which is a leading cause of dementia worldwide.

And studies also show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of Parkinson’s disease, with a risk reduction ranging from 32–60%. 

The caffeine in coffee appears to be the active ingredient responsible for these protective effects. 

Reduce bad breath

The catechins in green tea have benefits for oral health. The catechins can suppress the growth of bacteria, potentially lowering the risk of infections, reducing the risk of bad breath.

Help prevent cardiovascular disease

Green tea increases the antioxidant capacity of the blood, which protects the LDL particles from oxidation, which is one part of the pathway toward heart disease. Studies show that people who drink green tea have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Some studies also show that coffee drinkers have a 20% lower risk of stroke. And evidence shows a 16–18% lower risk of heart disease in men and women who drink between 1–4 cups of coffee daily. 

Protect the Liver

Coffee may protect against cirrhosis — people who drink 4 or more cups per day have up to an 80% lower risk. It may slow disease progression, improve treatment response and lower the risk of premature death.