According to the FDA, the caffeine in coffee is absorbed and circulated within 30 minutes to an hour; its effect can last up to six hours. Coffee enhances the energy levels of your brain, improving concentration and memory retention, leading to better cognitive performance. However, while tea is one of the most popular drinks around the world, it's still considered coffee's overshadowed cousin in the United States. But there's nothing like a hot cup of tea to wake you up and help keep you going throughout the day. Here are just a few compelling reasons to schedule a quick daily teatime as part of your morning routine.

You can still get your caffeine fix.

Studies show that 200 mg of caffeine can help you identify words and phrases faster than you could do without it. While many people seem to be under the impression that you can only get your caffeine fix from coffee, this isn't the case at all. In fact, some experts say that the caffeine in tea may have different effects from that of coffee.

"Tea has the same amount of caffeine as coffee, and while both are stimulants, coffee has a much bigger depressing effect (not making you sad but reducing your energy levels) than tea, meaning that while both tea and coffee will give you a bigger rush of caffeine, with coffee, the high will also last shorter and drop quicker. If you’re wanting something to keep you going through the work day, tea is the best choice," writes Chris Haigh on Lifehack.

It has plenty of other health benefits.

We've discussed in the past how coffee has a number of health benefits. In fact, moderate consumption of coffee can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 26%. But tea is also known for being one of the healthiest options and has been used in ancient remedies for thousands of years. Experts say its consumption may help to reduce certain kinds of tumors and cancers.

When all is said and done, there are countless health benefits of coffee and tea. But why not give a cup of tea a try to help get your morning started? For more information about specialty coffee and tea, contact American Coffee Services.