Tea, Coffee & Your Gut: Why Your Morning Brew Might Be Healthier Than You Think
We all have our daily rituals - some of us can’t start the day without a strong cup of coffee, while others reach for a calming mug of tea. It turns out, those habits might be doing more than just waking us up or giving us a moment of calm - they could also be supporting our gut health.
Let’s take a closer look.
The Magic in Your Mug: Polyphenols, Fibre & Friendly Bacteria
Both tea and coffee are packed with polyphenols - plant-based compounds that are known to support overall health. In black tea, these include theaflavins, thearubigins, and catechins. These little heroes have been shown to help reduce the number of "bad" bacteria in our guts while boosting the good ones.
Green tea might have the edge here, with some studies showing it provides even more benefits for your microbiome. But if you prefer black, don’t worry - it’s still a good choice, especially when enjoyed regularly and without added sugar.
Coffee lovers, you’re not left out. Coffee brings fibre and polyphenols to the table, which also help nourish the gut microbiome. One interesting finding? A microbe called Lawsonibacter asaccharolyticus - a bit of a mouthful - was found more often in coffee drinkers, and it's linked to markers of good gut and metabolic health.
How Much Is “Too Much”?
Moderation is key. Drinking up to five cups per day of tea or coffee appears to be safe and potentially beneficial. And for those sensitive to caffeine? Decaf coffee offers the same microbiome benefits - without the jitters.
A Note on Add-Ins
Here’s where things can get a little tricky. Many of the health benefits can be undone by what we put into our drinks. Sugar is the biggest culprit and ideally should be avoided or minimized. Adding a splash of milk is fine, especially if black coffee on an empty stomach feels harsh - it can be quite acidic for some people. A little milk can help buffer that.
The Bottom Line
A few mindful cups of tea or coffee each day could be doing wonders for your gut - and in turn, your overall well-being. It's another reminder that health isn’t just about the big things. Sometimes, it’s in the small, enjoyable moments - like your morning brew.
So go ahead. Sip slowly, savor the moment, and know that you're feeding more than just your soul. You’re also nurturing your microbiome.
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