In short – no, water is not an antioxidant. But it is found in drinks that do contain antioxidants, which might make it feel like a riddle. Is water pretending? Is it having an identity crisis? No, it’s just doing its job – hydrating you.

So, while antioxidants can be in water-based drinks, water itself isn’t one of them. Time to stop blaming your brain fog on chemistry confusion (but do grab a glass of water just in case).

What Are Antioxidants, Anyway?

Antioxidants are natural compounds found mostly in plant foods. Their job? To protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals – those unstable molecules that sound like something from a sci-fi film but are very real and not very helpful.

Think of antioxidants as microscopic bodyguards for your cells – keeping the peace and protecting against long-term health issues.

Antioxidants in Your Brew: Tea vs Coffee

Start your day with a hot drink? Good news: both tea and coffee are loaded with antioxidants.

All teas – especially green tea – contain flavonoids, a powerful group of antioxidants. In fact, tea is the second most consumed drink in the world after water. Green tea, in particular, is the antioxidant MVP in countries like China and Japan.

Fun fact: Studies show tea drinkers consume up to 20 times more flavonoids per day than those who skip it. Not bad for a humble cuppa.

And coffee? Also great. Research suggests it can be just as antioxidant rich as tea. So, if you’re a morning espresso fan, you’re in luck.

Can Tea and Coffee Replace Fruits and Veg?

Sorry, no. While both drinks are antioxidant-rich, they can’t replace the fibre, vitamins and broader range of nutrients found in fruits and vegetables. A balanced diet still wins.

Hot or Cold, AquAid’s Got You Coolered

Whether it’s a cup or mug of antioxidant-rich, piping hot tea, coffee or just refilling your water glass or bottle with refreshing H2O – we have the water delivery solution for you.

Water coolers, be they a bottled water dispenser or mains fed water coolers, desktop or floor standing models, a hot water boiler or Instant Taps – we have a wide range.

Not sure what you need? Contact AquAid – we’re happy to help.

graphic credit: Bryan DiSanto