Are London Fogs Healthier Than Coffee? A Full Comparison

December 16, 2025 •

3 min read

With approximately half the caffeine of a standard coffee latte, a London fog offers a milder, smoother energy boost, but are London fogs healthier than coffee overall? The answer depends on individual health goals, as both beverages offer unique benefits and drawbacks when considering ingredients, caffeine, and antioxidants.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nutritional differences, health benefits, and potential drawbacks of London fogs versus coffee. It examines caffeine content, ingredients, and antioxidant properties to determine which beverage better suits various dietary needs.

Key Points

Caffeine Content: London fogs have significantly less caffeine (30-60mg) than a typical coffee latte (up to 150mg), offering a gentler energy boost.
Energy Release: The L-theanine in Earl Grey tea provides a smoother, more sustained energy lift in a London fog, contrasting with the sharper spike and potential crash from coffee.
Antioxidant Profile: Both drinks are rich in antioxidants, but of different types; London fogs contain flavonoids and bergamot oil, while coffee has polyphenols and chlorogenic acid.
Customization is Key: The healthiness of either beverage heavily depends on additions like sugar and milk, making customization vital for controlling calorie and sugar intake.
Ingredient Impact: For those sensitive to caffeine, the lower dose in a London fog may be preferable, whereas coffee offers a stronger stimulating effect.
Preparation Matters: Opting for unsweetened or naturally sweetened versions of either drink is the best way to maximize health benefits and avoid excess sugar.

London Fog vs. Coffee: Ingredients and Health Benefits

A London fog is essentially an Earl Grey tea latte, typically containing Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. Its health depends on the type and amount of milk and sweetener. Coffee, made from roasted beans, can be simple or elaborate. We'll compare black coffee to a moderately prepared London fog.

The Role of Tea and Coffee Base Ingredients

London Fog (Earl Grey Tea): Contains black tea with flavonoids and antioxidants for heart health. L-theanine provides calm alertness, reducing anxiety from caffeine. Bergamot oil offers anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.
Coffee: Rich in polyphenols linked to reduced heart attack and stroke risk. Chlorogenic acid is a key antioxidant fighting cell damage.

Caffeine: The Jitter Factor

Caffeine levels differ significantly. A 16oz coffee latte can have up to 150 mg of caffeine, while a similar-sized London fog (with black tea) has about 30-60 mg. This makes the London fog a gentler option, especially with L-theanine moderating caffeine's effects for a more sustained energy boost.

Customization and Nutritional Differences

Preparation greatly affects the healthiness of both drinks. Black coffee has minimal calories, fat, or sugar. An unsweetened London fog with plant-based milk is also light. However, cafe versions often add substantial sugar and full-fat milk, negating health benefits. London fogs often include vanilla syrup, adding sugar. Controlling additions is vital for health-conscious choices. Both can use non-dairy milks like oat or almond milk.

Comparison Table: London Fog vs. Coffee


Feature	London Fog (Earl Grey Tea Latte)	Coffee (Latte)
Caffeine Level	Low to Moderate (30-60 mg)	Moderate to High (100-150 mg)
Antioxidants	Flavonoids, Theaflavins, Bergamot	Polyphenols, Chlorogenic Acid
Energy Boost	Smoother, more sustained due to L-theanine	Sharper peak, potential for crash
Side Effects	Less risk of jitters, anxiety, or insomnia	Higher risk of anxiety, jitters, fast heart rate
Heart Health	Supports cholesterol reduction, inflammation reduction	Reduced risk of heart disease
Origin	Black tea with bergamot oil	Roasted coffee beans
Sugar Content	Varies greatly based on added syrup	Varies greatly based on added syrup and flavorings

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Coffee's high caffeine can cause anxiety or increased heart rate. Unfiltered coffee may raise cholesterol slightly. London fogs' main issue is added sugar; cafe versions can be high in calories and sugar. Homemade versions with minimal natural sweetener are healthier. Pregnant women should moderate caffeine intake. The London fog's lower caffeine might be better, but moderation is still important. The Mayo Clinic offers further insight on coffee and health.

The Final Verdict: Is One Healthier?

Neither drink is universally healthier; they offer different benefits. A London fog is better for those seeking less caffeine, a gentler energy boost, and the calming effects of L-theanine, along with antioxidants from bergamot and black tea, provided sugar is limited. Coffee gives a stronger energy boost and antioxidants like polyphenols linked to heart and neurological health. The best choice depends on caffeine sensitivity, taste, and health goals. Both can be healthy in moderation, focusing on controlling additions.

Conclusion

Health depends on preparation and individual needs. Black coffee and unsweetened London fogs are healthy, low-calorie, and antioxidant-rich. London fogs have less caffeine and the calming L-theanine, while coffee has unique polyphenols and a stronger stimulant effect. By managing additions like sugar and cream, both can fit into a healthy lifestyle. The best choice aligns with personal needs and taste, consumed mindfully.

London Fog vs. Coffee: A Healthier Choice

The health impact is most determined by additions, not the base. Black coffee and unsweetened London fogs are excellent choices. The London fog has lower caffeine and calming L-theanine; coffee offers unique polyphenols and a stronger stimulant. The healthiest drink is the one enjoyed most with minimal unhealthy additions.

How to Make a Healthier London Fog

To make a London fog healthier:

Use unsweetened plant-based milk.
Reduce vanilla syrup or use a natural sweetener.
Add natural flavors like lavender or pure vanilla extract.
Brew strong Earl Grey tea to reduce the need for sweetener.

The Final Thought

Both beverages have a place in a balanced diet. Neither is a miracle drink. The right choice involves considering your health goals, caffeine reaction, and control over ingredients. A mindful approach to either drink is the healthiest path. Moderation and awareness are key in nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for many people. The L-theanine in the Earl Grey tea used for a London fog helps to balance the caffeine, promoting a state of calm alertness and reducing the jitters often associated with coffee.

A London fog typically contains 30-60 mg of caffeine, derived from the black tea base, while a coffee latte can contain up to 150 mg. A London fog is a good low-caffeine alternative.

Yes, London fogs contain bergamot oil, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits. Black tea also provides heart-healthy flavonoids and theaflavins.

To make a London fog healthier, use unsweetened plant-based milk, reduce the amount of vanilla syrup, or use a natural sweetener alternative. You can also add natural flavors like dried lavender.

A plain black coffee contains no added sugar or calories, making it a very healthy choice. However, the London fog has less caffeine and L-theanine, which can be beneficial for those sensitive to caffeine. The healthiest option depends on your specific needs.

Excessive caffeine from coffee can cause side effects like anxiety, headaches, and a fast heart rate. Unfiltered coffee can also slightly raise cholesterol levels.

Yes, London fogs are highly versatile and can be made with various non-dairy milks, such as oat, almond, or soy milk. The flavors of Earl Grey pair well with these alternatives.