Does Green Tea Contain Caffeine?
Green tea has been celebrated for centuries for its numerous health benefits and is often thought of as a healthier alternative to coffee. But is it really? Many people wonder if green tea is caffeinated, since it is derived from the same plant family as coffee.
The Caffeine in Green Tea
The answer is, yes, green tea does contain caffeine. However, the amount of caffeine present in green tea is significantly lower compared to that in coffee. Generally, 1 cup of brewed green tea contains about 30–50 mg of caffeine, while the same amount of coffee contains 95–200 mg. So you can see that the preferred cup of green tea may still give a mild boost but is not as strong when compared to coffee.
The Good News:
The good news is that green tea naturally contains a compound called L-theanine. This acts as an “antidote” to the caffeine and ameliorates its stimulating effects. So while the caffeine in green tea may give you a mild energy boost, it will not leave you feeling jittery and wired like coffee does.
5 Potential Benefits of Caffeine in Green Tea:
- Boosts physical performance & endurance
- Improves mental alertness & concentration
- Reduces fatigue & enhances mood
- Reduces risk of developing type 2 diabetes
- Lowers risk of heart disease
Conclusion
The caffeine in green tea may provide some mild health benefits such as improved physical performance and better mental alertness and concentration. But, it is important to remember that it is still a stimulant, and you should drink it in moderation. It is recommended to not exceed the recommended daily caffeine limit of 400-500mg.
