Which Is Better for Lasting Energy?

Many people turn to caffeinated beverages, like coffee or matcha, for an energy boost in the morning. They differ in caffeine content, energy effects, and other health benefits and drawbacks.

How Do They Compare for Energy and Caffeine?

Caffeine content:

• Coffee: The average cup of coffee contains around 95 mg of caffeine, though caffeine content can vary depending on the brand and brewing process.
• Matcha: The caffeine in a 2-gram (g) serving of matcha (green tea powder) varies from about 40 mg to 90 mg. The caffeine content depends on factors such as the amount of powder, the type of leaves, and the brewing process.

The caffeine in coffee and matcha may also act differently in your body. Research shows that 99% of caffeine from beverages is absorbed within 45 minutes of ingestion and tends to be faster acting:

• Coffee provides a more rapid boost in alertness: Its higher caffeine content blocks the sleep-inducing adenosine faster than matcha. This is one reason some people like having coffee before their morning workout. However, coffee’s more immediate effects can also wear off more dramatically, causing a noticeable energy dip.
• Matcha tends to provide a slower and more sustained energy release. Matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine, which has relaxing effects that may help slow and balance out the stimulating nature of caffeine.

Health Benefits of Coffee and Matcha

The list below highlights the key advantages of drinking matcha and coffee:

Coffee vs. Matcha: Potential Drawbacks

The lists below provide a comparison of the potential disadvantages of both matcha and coffee:

How Do They Compare?

For Anxiety

Matcha is generally a better choice for those seeking improved focus and energy without the risk of anxiousness:

• Some people, especially those who are more caffeine-sensitive, may find that drinking coffee triggers anxiety.
• Since coffee doesn’t contain the relaxing qualities of L-theanine that matcha does, it’s more likely to cause jitters, restlessness, or a faster heart rate.

For Gut Health

Matcha is gentler on your stomach than coffee for a couple of reasons:

• Coffee is significantly more acidic than matcha, which can irritate some people’s stomachs or cause heartburn.
• Coffee tends to act like a natural laxative, which could be a pro or a con.
• While it may not bring on a bowel movement as fast, matcha is a better prebiotic source (dietary fiber), which feeds probiotics (the friendly bacteria in your gut), making them reproduce.

For Weight Loss

Both matcha and coffee can support weight loss:

• Coffee may lead to more fat-burning because of how it promotes thermogenesis (heat production). It may also help suppress appetite and curb overeating if consumed 30 minutes to four hours before a meal.
• The EGCG in matcha also supports fat oxidation (the breakdown of fat) and may increase calorie burn during exercise more effectively than coffee.
• Be mindful of the sweeteners you add to your beverages. If consumed in excess, they can negate weight loss benefits.

Which Is Better?

Whether coffee or matcha is “better” depends on your preferences and health goals. Both beverages offer various health benefits and potential downsides that may matter more to some than others.

Here are some key takeaways to help you decide whether matcha or coffee is better for you:

• Coffee offers a more substantial boost for those seeking immediate alertness.
• Matcha provides a slower, more sustained energy release without a dramatic crash.
• Matcha is less likely to trigger jitteriness and anxiety because its L-theanine content helps balance out the effects of caffeine.
• Coffee is more acidic than matcha, which may be irritating to the stomach or cause heartburn in some.
• Both coffee and matcha can help support your weight loss goals through their potential to enhance fat burning.