The Sugar in a Gallon of Sweet Tea
In many households, sweet tea is a summertime staple. But do you know how much sugar is actually in a gallon of sweet tea?
Amount of Sugar
It is estimated that a gallon of sweet tea can contain anywhere between 160 and 240 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to 40-60 teaspoons of sugar. With that much added sugar, you are likely consuming more than the daily recommended limit of added sugars set by the American Heart Association.
Eliminating Sugar
If you still want to enjoy sweet tea without all the added sugar, there are many alternative options available to you, such as:
- Go for unsweetened tea– Plain tea has zero added sugars, if you’re looking for a healthier option.
- Swap Out Sugary Syrups – If you normally top off your tea with a sugary syrup, switch it out for a healthier alternative, such as agave, honey, or stevia.
- Drink Diluted – Instead of drinking your sweet tea straight, add some water or soda water to the mix. This will lessen the sugar content and still provide you with the same great taste.
Moderation
Like with all things, moderation is key. Regardless of whether you go for the genuine article or opt for one of the alternatives, be sure to keep track of how much you’re drinking each day. Too much of any one thing can have adverse effects on your health, so always enjoy sweet tea in moderation.
