Coffee and tea are the most often-consumed beverages. People socialize over coffee and tea and for others, it is a necessity to help them get through the day. Not only does it provide comfort, it also provides health benefits. Coffee and tea have long been recognized for their beneficial properties, which largely come from caffeine and antioxidants found in coffee beans and tea leaves. Getting together with friends for coffee or tea is good for the spirit and good for your health!

According to the National Coffee Association, over 62% of American adults drink coffee each day. Coffee beans are grown in over 50 countries around the world. They are roasted, ground and depending on preference, they are either steamed, soaked, boiled or dripped. Coffee contains caffeine, vitamins and minerals, polyphenols, and other components that may provide health benefits. Polyphenols are antioxidants, which are chemical compounds that fight against free radicals which can damage cells and lead to disease and illness.

Tea which continues to be a popular beverage in Asian countries, UK and countries like Turkey and Ireland also provides their own set of benefits. Tea making is an art itself. Tea makers dry and crush the tea leaves to bring out the oils and ferment them to bring about a chemical reaction to bring out the flavor of the tea leaves. The longer the tea leaves are fermented, the more caffeine it holds. Contrary to popular belief, green tea leaves are not fermented at all, while oolong leaves are fermented for some time and black tea leaves being fermented the longest. Tea is healthy due to the polyphenols that it contains, specifically catechins and epicatechins.