How many cups of tea and coffee do you drink every day? If you can't keep count, you'll be pleased to hear that research consistently finds our favourite hot beverages have many health benefits.

According to one study, highlighted in a new infographic by Westways Vending, a UK based vending machine supplier, the average tea drinker has around 10 gallons of tea per year while the average coffee drinker consumes 3.1 cups per day, equating to 70 gallons annually. And all that liquid is having some serious positive effects on our mind and body.

One study in 2005 found that while fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, the best source of of it that the human body can absorb is coffee. Researchers in Korea also found that the smell of coffee causes changes in the brain to proteins tied to sleep deprivation, which helps to reduce stress. It can even ease depression by 10 percent, where Harvard research found that drinking two to four cups of coffee reduced the risk of suicide in subjects by 50 percent. 

In terms of the long terms effects, one study found that coffee drinkers ages 65 and over tended to develop Alzheimer's disease up to four years later than those with lower caffeine levels. Coffee can also lower the risk of breast, liver, rectal and colon cancers.

Meanwhile, tea drinkers have just as much to be reassured by. Both black and green tea are full of antioxidants that may help prevent many forms of cancer, including breast, lungs and stomach. Black tea can also help blood vessels dilate correctly which can protect you from a stroke or heart disease and Oolong tea helps prevent tooth decay.
 
We already feel a little healthier putting that kettle on already.