What We Know About Sweet Tea and Caffeine
Sweet tea is a staple in the South and it’s a favorite summertime beverage. But what many people don’t know is whether it has caffeine or not. So, is sweet tea caffeinated?
Is Sweet Tea Caffeinated?
The answer is yes and no, depending on what kind of tea you’re drinking. If you make your sweet tea out of black tea, it will have caffeine. However, if you make it out of herbal teas, like rooibos or chamomile, it won’t.
How Much Caffeine Is in Sweet Tea?
The amount of caffeine depends on the type of black tea used and the length of time it was steeped. Generally, a 12-ounce glass of sweet tea made with a teaspoon of black tea leaves will have about 14 milligrams of caffeine, compared to 95 milligrams in a cup of coffee.
Why Is Sweet Tea So Popular?
Sweet tea has been around for centuries, but it became popular in the South because of the climate. In warm weather, it’s more refreshing than hot tea and can be easily sweetened with sugar or honey.
Plus, it’s an easy way to get a caffeine fix without having to brew a separate cup of coffee. So if you’re looking for a way to stay alert without drinking coffee, sweet tea may be just the thing you need.
What Are the Benefits of Drinking Sweet Tea?
There are a few potential benefits to drinking sweet tea, such as:
- May Help Increase Energy Levels: Sweet tea contains a moderate amount of caffeine, so it can give you a pick-me-up without the heavy jitters you might get from drinking coffee.
- May Aid Weight Loss: Sweet tea is a low-calorie drink that can help curb cravings and replace sugary soft drinks in your diet.
- May Reduce Risk of Disease: Sweet tea contains antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
- May Improve Digestion: Sweet tea can help improve digestion and reduce bloating by increasing the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Summary
Sweet tea is a popular beverage in the South and it does indeed contain caffeine. The amount varies depending on the type of tea used, but it can provide a mild energy boost without the jitters you might get from coffee. Furthermore, it also has potential health benefits, such as reducing the risk of chronic diseases and improving digestion.
