Sweet tea

Sweet tea

Beverage

Item Rating: 68/100

1 serving (240 grams) contains 90 calories, 0.0 grams of protein, 0.0 grams of fat, and 23.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Log this food in SnapCalorie

★★★★★ 4.8/5.0 (2,000+ reviews)
Get your calorie requirement
Log your nutrition in seconds
Get a personalized nutrition plan
SnapCalorie App Screenshot
90
calories
0
protein
23.0
carbohydrates
0
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (240g)
Calories
90
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 0 g 0%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 10.0 mg 0%
Total Carbohydrates 23.0 g 8%
Dietary Fiber 0 g 0%
Sugars 22.0 g
protein 0 g 0%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 2.0 mg 0%
Iron 0 mg 0%
Potassium 11.0 mg 0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt
🍞 Low carbs

Source of Calories

100.0%
0.0%
0.0%
Fat: 0 cal (0.0%)
Protein: 0 cal (0.0%)
Carbs: 92 cal (100.0%)

About Sweet tea

Sweet tea is a popular iced beverage in the Southern United States, traditionally made by brewing black tea, adding sugar for sweetness, and serving it chilled with ice. Black tea provides a source of antioxidants, primarily polyphenols like catechins and flavonoids. However, commercially prepared sweet tea is often high in added sugars, which significantly increases its caloric content. A standard 8-ounce serving of sweet tea can contain around 90 calories and 22 grams of sugar, depending on the recipe. It is a refreshing drink that holds cultural significance in Southern cuisine, particularly during warm weather.

Health Benefits

  • Contains antioxidants like catechins and flavonoids, which may support heart health by reducing oxidative stress.
  • Provides hydration, which is essential for maintaining bodily functions and overall well-being.
  • Caffeine in black tea can temporarily boost alertness and focus, with about 30-50 mg per 8-ounce serving.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: None known
Suitable for: Vegetarian, vegan
Not suitable for: Low-sugar diet, diabetic diet

Selection and Storage

Sweet tea should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3-4 days to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.

Common Questions About Sweet tea Nutrition

How many calories are in sweet tea?

Sweet tea typically contains about 90-120 calories per 8-ounce serving, depending on the amount of sugar used. Most calories come directly from added sugar, as sweet tea does not provide protein or significant fat.

Is sweet tea compatible with a keto diet?

Sweet tea is not keto-friendly due to its high sugar content, which can contain 20-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. For a keto alternative, consider unsweetened tea or tea sweetened with keto-approved sweeteners like stevia or erythritol.

Are there any health concerns related to drinking sweet tea?

Drinking sweet tea in excess can contribute to health issues like weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes due to its high sugar content. Moderation is key, and alternatives like unsweetened tea can be healthier choices.

What is the recommended serving size for sweet tea?

A standard serving size for sweet tea is 8 ounces, which helps limit calorie and sugar intake. If consuming sweet tea regularly, aim to reduce sugar levels and portion sizes to better align with dietary goals.

How does sweet tea compare to other beverages like soda or unsweetened tea?

Sweet tea often contains fewer calories and sugar than soda but far more than unsweetened tea. For example, an 8-ounce serving of soda can have 150-200 calories, while unsweetened tea has zero calories. Sweet tea is a better option than soda but less healthy than unsweetened tea or lightly sweetened alternatives.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

  1. Added Sugars: Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025
    U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
    Provides guidance on limiting the consumption of added sugars, including beverages like sweet tea, for better health outcomes.
  2. Tea and Human Health: An Update
    American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
    Reviews the health effects of tea, particularly focusing on antioxidants and how preparation methods (e.g., sweet tea) impact health.
  3. Beverages: Sources of Nutrients and Empty Calories
    Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
    Explains the nutritional impact of sugar-sweetened beverages like sweet tea and their contribution to empty calorie consumption.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.