Recently I’ve been starting to notice that there are several groups of people at the U when it comes to beverage choices. There are the die-hard coffee enthusiasts, the oh-so-environmentally-aware tea drinkers, the healthy water advocates, the soda slurpers, and the final miscellaneous group which can include anyone from the sugary Jamba Juice takers to the frazzled energy drink addicts. Where do you fall under on this list?
You may be like me and fit into each one of these groups depending on the day of the week, workload, etc. Regardless, here’s a quick break down about some of these drink options to help you decide what works best for you:
Coffee is a brewed beverage that is prepared from roasted seeds. On average there’s about 80-185 mg of caffeine per cup. So if you need that extra shot of caffeine, walk on over to that cup of coffee. Coffee tends to benefit the body if taken IN MODERATION, so consider some healthier sleeping or studying habits if you find yourself unable to open your eyes in the morning without a Starbucks in hand.
Tea generally has a more positive impact on your health because it contains Tannin and Catechin, which have both been associated with preventing cancer and heart disease. On average tea has about 15-70 mg of caffeine per cup. Tea is a great beverage option for the morning when you are looking for something light and refreshing yet still energizing. And of course, the choices! Green, black, earl grey, passionfruit: try ‘em out and see what fits your fancy.
Water is literally as good as it gets. It helps you concentrate and get work done without feeling sluggish or extremely over caffeinated. If you’re not crazy about the lack of taste, add a little lemon or mint to give it subtle flavor.
Soda is a great quick fix. Even though it isn’t the highest on the healthy option list, soda is fairly cheap and easy to come by when you are on your way to class. It provides you with much needed energy at times, but usually comes with a crash and is a huge indicator of obesity, so be wary. Enjoy it as a treat but stick to something healthier when it comes to everyday hydration.
Now that we’ve analyzed what everyone’s toting around to class, come Tuesday morning, what will you be drinking?