Yerba Mate vs Coffee: Which Is Truly Better for You?

Staring at your morning cup, wondering if there’s a better way to get that essential energy boost? You’re not alone. Many people grapple with the jitters, the dreaded afternoon crash, or digestive discomfort that can come with their daily coffee ritual, leaving them searching for a superior alternative. Does yerba mate hold the answer?

Yerba mate, a traditional South American infusion, often provides sustained, smooth energy with fewer jitters, thanks to compounds like theobromine, alongside a richer nutrient profile. Coffee typically delivers a quicker, more intense caffeine spike and significant antioxidants. Deciding which is “better” hinges on your individual preferences for energy delivery, taste, nutritional benefits, and digestive tolerance.

This exploration dives deep into the Yerba Mate vs. Coffee debate, drawing on research and user experiences. We’ll dissect everything from caffeine levels and energy effects to nutritional value, health impacts, taste profiles, and cultural significance. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how these two popular beverages stack up, empowering you to choose the best morning (or afternoon) companion for you.

Key Facts:
* Coffee generally boasts a higher caffeine content per standard cup (85-120 mg) compared to yerba mate (70-80 mg), though brewing methods significantly impact final amounts.
* Yerba mate typically offers a broader nutritional profile, containing vitamins A, C, B-complex, E, essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, amino acids, and potent antioxidants (polyphenols, saponins), surpassing coffee’s B2 and magnesium content.
* Unlike coffee’s singular caffeine hit, yerba mate contains a trio of stimulants – caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline – believed to contribute to its characteristic smooth, sustained energy release without the harsh peaks and crashes. (Source: Santos et al. 2024 analysis)
* Due to its generally lower acidity, yerba mate is often considered gentler on the digestive system than coffee, which can trigger acid reflux or irritate conditions like gastritis or IBS in sensitive individuals.
* Both beverages offer potential cardiovascular benefits; studies suggest moderate coffee consumption may lower heart disease risk, while yerba mate shows promise in lowering LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and protecting heart tissue.

Yerba Mate vs Coffee: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, yerba mate and coffee might seem like interchangeable caffeine delivery systems. Both are plant-derived beverages cherished for their stimulating effects. However, digging deeper reveals two distinct drinks with unique origins, chemical compositions, and cultural tapestries. Understanding these fundamental differences is key to appreciating why one might suit you better than the other.

Yerba mate is a traditional South American infusion made from the leaves and twigs of the Ilex paraguariensis plant, a species of holly tree. In contrast, coffee is brewed from the roasted seeds (beans) of the Coffea plant. While both contain the stimulant caffeine, they diverge significantly in their full spectrum of compounds, nutritional offerings, typical taste profiles, and the physiological effects they produce. This foundational difference sets the stage for comparing their impacts on energy, health, and overall experience.

What is Yerba Mate?

Yerba mate (pronounced yer-bah mah-tay) isn’t tea in the traditional sense (derived from Camellia sinensis), but rather an infusion steeped from the leaves and stems of Ilex paraguariensis. This evergreen holly tree is native to the subtropical regions of South America, primarily thriving in Paraguay, Argentina, Southern Brazil, and Uruguay. For centuries, indigenous cultures like the Guaraní tribe have revered yerba mate not just as a beverage but as a vital source of nutrients, energy, and social connection.

Traditionally, dried yerba mate leaves are placed in a hollowed-out gourd (mate) and steeped with hot (not boiling) water. The infusion is then sipped through a filtered metal straw called a bombilla. This preparation method is often a communal ritual, symbolizing friendship and hospitality, where the gourd is passed around a circle. While traditional preparation remains popular, yerba mate is now also available in tea bags, as loose leaf for French presses or coffee makers, and in ready-to-drink bottled beverages, making it accessible globally. It’s recognized for its unique combination of caffeine, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds.

What is Coffee?

Coffee, arguably the world’s most popular psychoactive beverage, needs little introduction. It originates from the roasted seeds, commonly called beans, of the Coffea plant. Native primarily to tropical Africa (specifically Ethiopia and Sudan) and Madagascar, Comoros, Mauritius, and Réunion in the Indian Ocean, the two most commercially important species are Coffea arabica and Coffea canephora (often known as robusta). Coffee cultivation now spans the globe across the “Coffee Belt,” a region encompassing equatorial zones in Central and South America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

The journey from cherry to cup involves harvesting the coffee cherries, processing them to extract the seeds, drying the seeds (green coffee beans), roasting them to develop characteristic flavors and aromas, grinding the roasted beans, and finally brewing them with hot water. Common brewing methods include drip filtration, espresso, French press, pour-over, and cold brew, each yielding a distinct taste and strength. Coffee is deeply ingrained in cultures worldwide, often associated with productivity, social gatherings, and morning rituals.

How Do Yerba Mate and Coffee Compare on Caffeine and Energy Boost?

The primary reason most people reach for either yerba mate or coffee is for that coveted energy lift. But how do they actually stack up in terms of caffeine content and the type of energy they provide? While both contain caffeine, the amount and the accompanying compounds lead to noticeably different experiences.

Generally, coffee packs a higher caffeine punch per cup (averaging 85-120mg) compared to yerba mate (averaging 70-80mg), although preparation methods influence this greatly. Users often describe coffee’s effect as a rapid, intense energy spike that can sometimes lead to jitters and a subsequent crash. In contrast, yerba mate is frequently reported to offer a more balanced, sustained, and smooth energy boost, enhancing focus without the anxious side effects, potentially due to its unique blend of caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline.

Caffeine Levels Explained

When comparing caffeine content, it’s essential to look at averages, as many factors can influence the final amount in your cup – including the specific plant variety, processing, brewing time, water temperature, and serving size.

On average, a standard 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 85–120 milligrams (mg) of caffeine. Some stronger brews or espresso shots can contain significantly more. Yerba mate, in the same 8-ounce serving prepared traditionally or via methods like a French press, typically contains around 70–80 mg of caffeine. While this is slightly less than the average cup of coffee, it’s still a substantial amount, often more than most black or green teas. It’s crucial to remember these are estimates; a strong mate brew could potentially exceed the caffeine in a weak coffee.

The Nature of the Energy Boost: Jitters vs. Smooth Focus

Beyond the sheer quantity of caffeine, the quality of the energy boost is where many users note the most significant difference between yerba mate and coffee. This subjective experience is likely influenced by the interplay of various compounds within each beverage.

Coffee’s relatively high caffeine concentration often leads to a rapid absorption and a pronounced stimulation of the central nervous system. For many, this translates to a quick, powerful surge of alertness and energy. However, this intense spike can also bring unwanted side effects like jitters, anxiety, restlessness, and a subsequent energy “crash” as the effects wear off.

Yerba mate, on the other hand, is frequently described as providing a smoother, more sustained release of energy and mental clarity. Users often report feeling alert, focused, and productive without the nervous tension or jarring crash associated with coffee. This balanced effect is often attributed to yerba mate’s unique “trifecta” of xanthine alkaloids: caffeine, theobromine (also found in chocolate, known for its mood-lifting and smooth muscle relaxant effects), and theophylline (a bronchodilator also found in tea). The synergistic action of these compounds might modulate the caffeine’s impact, leading to a gentler, more enduring stimulation. As Santos et al. (2024) noted in their analysis, these stimulants work together to impact dopamine and norepinephrine, potentially explaining the focused yet calm energy many experience.

Key Takeaway: If you’re sensitive to caffeine jitters or dislike the energy rollercoaster coffee sometimes provides, yerba mate’s smoother, more sustained boost driven by its unique blend of stimulants might be a preferable experience.

Is Yerba Mate Healthier Than Coffee Nutritionally?

When evaluating which beverage might be “healthier,” the nutritional content beyond caffeine becomes a critical factor. Both yerba mate and coffee offer health benefits, particularly due to their antioxidant content, but their overall nutritional profiles differ significantly.

Yerba mate generally presents a more diverse and robust nutritional profile compared to coffee. It’s packed with various vitamins (A, C, E, B-complex), minerals (calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium), amino acids, and potent plant compounds like polyphenols and saponins. While coffee is a major source of beneficial antioxidants, particularly chlorogenic acids, it doesn’t typically offer the same breadth of essential vitamins and minerals found in significant amounts in yerba mate.

Nutrient Breakdown: Vitamins, Minerals, and More

Let’s break down the key nutritional components found in each:

• Yerba Mate:
  • Vitamins: Contains notable amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and several B-complex vitamins (like B1, B2, B3, B5).
  • Minerals: A good source of essential minerals including Magnesium, Potassium, Manganese, Zinc, and Iron.
  • Amino Acids: Contains several essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein.
  • Other Compounds: Rich in polyphenols (powerful antioxidants), saponins (compounds with anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering potential), and chlorogenic acids (also found in coffee).
• Coffee:
  • Vitamins: Contains small amounts of Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), and B5 (Pantothenic Acid).
  • Minerals: Provides some Magnesium, Potassium, and Manganese, though generally in smaller quantities per serving than mate.
  • Other Compounds: A significant source of antioxidants, especially chlorogenic acids and melanoidins (formed during roasting).

While coffee contributes some nutrients, yerba mate stands out for its wider array of vitamins and minerals, making it a more nutritionally dense beverage overall. Some proponents even compare its nutrient load favorably to green tea.

Antioxidant Power Compared

Both yerba mate and coffee are lauded for their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are crucial compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of various chronic diseases.

Both beverages are rich sources of antioxidants, but they contain different types and potentially different overall levels. Yerba mate is abundant in polyphenols, such as caffeoyl derivatives and saponins, with some studies suggesting its antioxidant capacity might even exceed that of green tea. Coffee is exceptionally rich in chlorogenic acids (CGAs), which are well-studied for their health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects and potential improvements in glucose metabolism. Roasting coffee beans can decrease CGA levels but also forms other antioxidant compounds like melanoidins.

It’s difficult to definitively declare one superior in antioxidant power, as the specific types of antioxidants and their bioavailability differ. However, both drinks contribute significantly to dietary antioxidant intake. If variety in antioxidant types and a broader nutrient spectrum is the goal, yerba mate may have an edge. If maximizing chlorogenic acid intake is prioritized, coffee is an excellent choice.

How Do Yerba Mate and Coffee Affect Digestion?

Digestive tolerance is a common concern when choosing caffeinated beverages. How do yerba mate and coffee impact the stomach and the rest of the digestive tract? For many individuals, there’s a noticeable difference.

Yerba mate is often perceived as being significantly gentler on the digestive system compared to coffee, primarily due to its lower acidity. Coffee’s relatively high acidity can be problematic for individuals prone to acid reflux, heartburn, gastritis, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), potentially causing irritation and discomfort. In contrast, yerba mate may even offer digestive benefits for some, potentially stimulating bile production or exhibiting mild laxative effects.

Coffee’s acidity can stimulate excess stomach acid production, leading to the burning sensation of heartburn or aggravating existing inflammation in the stomach lining (gastritis). Some people also find that coffee speeds up intestinal contractions, which can be problematic for those with IBS, potentially leading to cramps or diarrhea.

Yerba mate, being less acidic, is less likely to cause these specific issues. Some traditional uses even include employing mate to aid digestion. Research suggests compounds in mate might help relax smooth muscle tissue and potentially promote the production and flow of bile, which aids in fat digestion. Furthermore, some studies have indicated yerba mate possesses anti-bacterial properties that could help combat certain gut pathogens like E. coli. While some individuals might experience a mild laxative effect from mate (as with many caffeinated beverages), it’s generally considered less disruptive to the digestive system than coffee for sensitive individuals.

Tip: If coffee consistently causes you stomach upset, heartburn, or worsens IBS symptoms, switching to the less acidic yerba mate could provide a more comfortable caffeine experience.

What About Heart and Bone Health?

Beyond digestion, the long-term effects of regular consumption on vital systems like the heart and bones are important considerations. How do yerba mate and coffee influence cardiovascular health and bone density?

Both yerba mate and coffee appear to offer potential cardiovascular benefits when consumed in moderation, though they may act through slightly different mechanisms. Coffee consumption is linked to reduced risk of heart disease in some studies, while yerba mate shows promise in improving cholesterol profiles (lowering LDL, potentially raising HDL). Regarding bone health, high coffee intake is sometimes associated with reduced calcium absorption, raising theoretical concerns about long-term bone density, whereas preliminary research suggests yerba mate might actually have a positive effect on bone mineral density.

Impact on Cardiovascular Health

• Coffee: Numerous large-scale studies have investigated coffee’s link to heart health. Moderate consumption (typically 3-5 cups/day) is often associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart failure. However, coffee can cause a temporary increase in blood pressure shortly after consumption, which might be a consideration for individuals with hypertension. Unfiltered coffee (like French press or boiled coffee) contains compounds called diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol) that can raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels; filtered coffee largely removes these.
• Yerba Mate: Research on yerba mate’s cardiovascular effects is growing. Studies suggest it can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and potentially increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Compounds in mate, like saponins and antioxidants (quercetin, rutin), may contribute to these effects and offer protection against atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Yerba mate generally appears to have less impact on blood pressure compared to coffee’s acute spike. Some evidence suggests it may possess cardio-protective properties.

Coffee vs. Yerba Mate for Bone Density

The relationship between caffeine and bone health is complex and still under investigation.

• Coffee: High caffeine intake (generally considered over 400mg/day, or about 4 cups of coffee) has been linked in some studies to slightly reduced calcium absorption and potentially a small decrease in bone mineral density over the long term, particularly in individuals with low calcium intake. This effect is generally considered modest, but it’s a point of consideration, especially for postmenopausal women at higher risk of osteoporosis.
• Yerba Mate: Interestingly, some research points in the opposite direction for yerba mate. A notable study involving postmenopausal women found that regular yerba mate drinkers had significantly higher bone mineral density in their lumbar spine and femoral neck compared to non-drinkers, even after adjusting for other factors like age, BMI, and calcium intake. The exact mechanisms are unclear but may involve mate’s unique combination of minerals and bioactive compounds potentially stimulating bone formation or inhibiting resorption. More research is needed, but these initial findings are promising.

Are There Cancer Risks Associated with Yerba Mate or Coffee?

Concerns about potential links between popular beverages and cancer risk periodically surface. What does the current science say about yerba mate, coffee, and cancer?

Based on current scientific consensus, neither coffee nor yerba mate is considered carcinogenic when consumed at normal temperatures. In fact, coffee consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of certain cancers (like liver and endometrial cancer). Historical concerns linking yerba mate to esophageal cancer are primarily attributed to the traditional practice of drinking it scalding hot (thermal injury) and potentially to contaminants like Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) from older, smoke-based drying methods, rather than the mate leaves themselves.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization, has evaluated both beverages:

• Coffee: IARC concluded that coffee consumption is not classifiable as carcinogenic to humans. Extensive research suggests no overall increased cancer risk, and potential protective effects against some cancer types.
• Yerba Mate: Initially, mate consumed very hot was classified as “probably carcinogenic,” but this was based on the temperature causing thermal injury to the esophagus, a risk associated with any beverage consumed at very high temperatures (above 65°C or 149°F). The mate itself was not implicated. Subsequently, IARC classified mate consumed at cooler temperatures as “not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity.”
  • PAHs: Some older, traditional methods of drying yerba mate leaves involved smoking, which could introduce PAHs, known carcinogens also found in grilled meats and tobacco smoke. However, many modern producers now use air-drying or other methods that significantly reduce or eliminate PAH contamination. Choosing reputable brands that use updated processing techniques minimizes this potential concern.

Key Takeaway: Enjoy your coffee or yerba mate at a safe, comfortable temperature (not scalding hot). If concerned about PAHs in mate, opt for brands specifically marketed as unsmoked or air-dried. Neither beverage inherently increases cancer risk when consumed responsibly.

Taste, Preparation, and Cultural Differences

Beyond the physiological effects, the sensory experience and cultural context play huge roles in choosing between yerba mate and coffee. They offer distinct flavors, involve different preparation rituals, and hold unique places in social traditions.

Yerba mate typically presents an earthy, grassy, and sometimes slightly smoky or bitter flavor profile, quite different from coffee’s familiar roasted, bitter, and acidic notes which vary greatly depending on bean origin and roast level. Traditional mate preparation involves a shared gourd and bombilla, fostering a social ritual significant in South American cultures. Coffee preparation is diverse globally, often consumed individually as a productivity aid or enjoyed in cafes as a social lubricant.

Flavor Profiles: Earthy vs. Roasted

• Yerba Mate: The taste can be an acquired one for those accustomed to coffee or tea. Common descriptors include earthy, herbaceous, vegetal, grassy, and slightly bitter. Depending on the processing (smoked vs. unsmoked) and variety, it can also have smoky or woody undertones. The strength and bitterness can be adjusted by the amount of leaves used and steeping time. Many find it less acidic than coffee.
• Coffee: The flavor spectrum of coffee is incredibly broad, influenced by bean origin, processing, roast level, and brewing method. General characteristics include roasted, nutty, chocolatey, fruity, floral, and bitter notes, often accompanied by noticeable acidity. From the bright, wine-like acidity of an Ethiopian Yirgacheffe to the heavy, chocolatey body of a Sumatran Mandheling, coffee offers vast diversity for the palate.

Preparation Methods and Rituals

• Yerba Mate: The most iconic preparation involves the gourd (mate) and metal straw (bombilla). Loose leaves fill about half to two-thirds of the gourd, cool water is added to moisten them, then hot (not boiling) water is repeatedly added for multiple infusions. This method is central to the communal sharing ritual prevalent in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Southern Brazil, where one person (the cebador) prepares and serves the mate, passing it around a circle. Modern methods include using a French press, coffee maker (with appropriate filter), or standard tea bags for individual servings.
• Coffee: Preparation methods are numerous and vary culturally. Common methods include drip brewing (automatic coffee makers), espresso machines, pour-over devices (like Hario V60 or Chemex), French press, AeroPress, moka pot, and cold brewing. While coffee shops provide a major social hub worldwide, daily coffee consumption is often an individual ritual, associated with starting the day, enhancing focus during work, or taking a quick break.

The cultural difference is significant: yerba mate is intrinsically linked to social bonding and slow-paced sharing in its native regions, whereas coffee, while social in cafes, is often intertwined with individual productivity and faster-paced lifestyles globally.

Yerba Mate vs Coffee: Which One Should You Choose?

After exploring the nuances of caffeine delivery, nutritional profiles, health impacts, taste, and culture, the ultimate question remains: which beverage is truly “better”? The answer, unequivocally, depends entirely on you. There is no single winner in the yerba mate vs. coffee showdown; the optimal choice aligns with your individual needs, preferences, and physiological responses.

Choose yerba mate if you prioritize a smooth, sustained energy boost without the jitters or crash often associated with coffee, desire a broader range of vitamins and minerals, seek a gentler option for your digestive system, or enjoy its unique earthy flavor and the social ritual it represents. Opt for coffee if you prefer a more intense, rapid energy kick, appreciate the diverse and familiar roasted flavor profiles, rely on its potent antioxidant contribution (especially chlorogenic acids), or find it readily aligns with your lifestyle and social habits.

Consider these scenarios:

• If you’re prone to caffeine jitters or anxiety: Yerba mate’s smoother energy release might be a better fit.
• If you experience acid reflux or stomach upset from coffee: Yerba mate’s lower acidity makes it a potentially more tolerable option.
• If you’re looking to maximize nutrient intake from your beverage: Yerba mate’s vitamin and mineral content gives it an edge.
• If you need a quick, strong jolt of energy: Coffee’s higher caffeine spike might be more effective.
• If you love the taste of roasted beans and diverse flavor notes: Coffee offers a wider established spectrum.
• If you value tradition and social ritual in your beverage: The cultural significance of yerba mate in South America is profound.

Ultimately, experimentation is key. Try both, pay attention to how your body and mind respond, and decide which beverage best supports your well-being and daily routine. You might even find room for both!

FAQs About Yerba Mate vs Coffee

Is yerba mate actually better for you than coffee?

Neither is definitively “better” overall; it depends on individual health goals and tolerance. Yerba mate offers a broader range of vitamins and minerals and a smoother energy boost for many. Coffee provides a higher concentration of certain antioxidants like chlorogenic acids and may offer different cardiovascular benefits. Both can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed responsibly.

How much caffeine is in yerba mate compared to coffee?

Coffee generally has more caffeine per cup (85-120mg) than yerba mate (70-80mg). However, brewing methods and serving sizes cause significant variation. A strongly brewed mate could potentially have more caffeine than a weak cup of coffee.

Will yerba mate give me jitters like coffee does?

Many users report fewer or no jitters with yerba mate compared to coffee. This is often attributed to mate’s combination of caffeine with theobromine and theophylline, leading to a smoother, more balanced stimulation rather than a sharp spike. Individual sensitivity still varies.

What does yerba mate taste like compared to coffee?

Yerba mate has an earthy, grassy, sometimes slightly smoky or bitter taste. It’s quite distinct from coffee’s typical roasted, bitter, and acidic flavor profile, which varies greatly depending on the bean and roast. Mate’s taste is often described as more vegetal or herbaceous.

Is yerba mate more acidic than coffee?

No, yerba mate is generally less acidic than coffee. This is why many people who experience heartburn or stomach irritation from coffee find yerba mate easier to tolerate digestively.

Can I drink yerba mate every day?

Yes, for most healthy adults, drinking yerba mate daily in moderation is considered safe. As with any caffeinated beverage, excessive consumption isn’t recommended. Pay attention to your body’s response and limit intake if you experience negative side effects.

What are the main health benefits of yerba mate over coffee?

Potential benefits of yerba mate over coffee include its broader nutrient profile (more vitamins/minerals), smoother energy release with potentially fewer jitters/crashes, gentler effect on digestion due to lower acidity, and preliminary evidence suggesting positive effects on LDL cholesterol and bone density.

Is yerba mate better than coffee for focus (like Andrew Huberman suggests)?

Some individuals, including public figures like neuroscientist Andrew Huberman, report enhanced focus and cognitive function with yerba mate compared to coffee, often attributing it to the smoother energy curve and blend of stimulants. Many users find mate provides sustained mental clarity without the distracting jitters coffee can cause, making it potentially better for focused work sessions. Personal experiences vary.

How does yerba mate compare to matcha or green tea?

Yerba mate, matcha, and green tea all come from different plants but share some similarities (antioxidants, caffeine). Mate typically has more caffeine than green tea but slightly less than matcha. Matcha (powdered green tea) often has higher concentrations of certain antioxidants like EGCG. Mate offers a unique stimulant profile (caffeine, theobromine, theophylline) and a distinct earthy flavor compared to the grassy notes of green tea and matcha.

Are there any downsides to drinking yerba mate instead of coffee?

Potential downsides are subjective. Some may find mate’s earthy taste less appealing than coffee’s roasted flavor. While generally well-tolerated, some individuals might still experience caffeine sensitivity. Historically, concerns existed about PAHs in traditionally smoked mate and cancer risk from drinking it scalding hot, though these are mitigated by choosing air-dried varieties and consuming at safe temperatures.

Summary: The Final Brew

Choosing between yerba mate and coffee isn’t about crowning a universal champion, but rather finding the beverage that best harmonizes with your body, preferences, and lifestyle. Both offer unique advantages: coffee delivers that familiar, powerful jolt and rich roasted flavors, backed by significant antioxidant content. Yerba mate counters with a treasure trove of nutrients, a smoother, sustained energy lift often free from jitters, and a gentler touch on the digestive system, all wrapped in a unique, earthy taste profile and rich cultural tradition.

The “better” choice boils down to personal experience and priorities. Do you crave intensity or endurance? A broad nutrient spectrum or specific antioxidants? Digestive comfort or familiar flavor? By understanding the key differences in caffeine effect, nutrition, digestion, taste, and culture, you’re now equipped to make an informed decision.

What’s your take on the yerba mate vs. coffee debate? Have you made the switch, or do you enjoy both? Share your experiences and preferences in the comments below – let’s continue the conversation!