Is Black Iced Tea Good for You?
Black iced tea is a cool and refreshing beverage that can provide some health benefits. But how good is it for you? Let’s explore its ingredients and effects on your health.
Nutritional Properties
Black iced tea is made with tea leaves and water, and some types also feature other ingredients, such as:
- Lemon juice
- Honey
- Mint
- Milk
- Reducing your risk of stroke
- Increased focus and alertness
- Reducing risk of some types of cancer
- Lowering your risk of type 2 diabetes
- Decreasing bad cholesterol levels
- Promoting heart health
- High caffeine content: Depending on the brand and variety, an eight-ounce (240 ml)serving of black iced tea may contain between 14–70 mg of caffeine. Drinking too much can cause symptoms like headaches and nausea.
- Additives: Some types of black iced tea contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners to improve the taste. If this is the case, watch the amount you consume to avoid unwanted added calories.
- Tannins: Black iced tea contains tannins, which may reduce absorption of dietary minerals, including zinc, iron and calcium.
Black iced tea is often rich in caffeine and antioxidants, both of which may have positive health effects. As for calories, an eight-ounce (240 ml) serving of unsweetened black iced tea contains only 2–6 calories, depending on the brand.
The Benefits
Regularly drinking black iced tea might offer several health benefits, including:
The Downsides
Though black iced tea may offer some health benefits, it’s also important to consider the potential downsides.
The Bottom Line
Black iced tea is a refreshing beverage that may offer potential benefits when consumed in moderation. However, it also contains stimulants and tannins that may be unhealthy in large quantities. As with most foods and drinks, moderation is key when it comes to your health.
