If you’re considering switching from soda to sweet tea, you may wonder whether there’s a difference in health benefits. Both drinks contain calories, which is something you don’t want. But, sweet tea has less calories than soda, and it has many health benefits.
Tea contains antioxidants, which can protect the body from free radicals. It also has caffeine, which gives energy. While caffeine can help you stay awake, it can also confuse your metabolism, leading to unhealthy side effects. However, tea’s antioxidants may benefit your health in other ways, as they have been linked to lower risks of cancer and heart disease.
Some people drink sugary sodas on a daily basis, as they provide a quick source of energy. The American Heart Association recommends a maximum of six to nine teaspoons of added sugar per day for men and nine teaspoons of added sugar per day for women. In the past, scientists have identified sodas as one of the main causes of obesity in the U.S. And, studies have shown that soda consumption has dropped by as much as 25% in the last decade.
Sugary sodas are often addictive. People who consume them frequently tend to be smokers and fast food eaters. They may not eat regular fruits or vegetables. Other types of beverages are better choices, such as water or fruit juice. Soda can also cause upset stomachs. Drinking a glass of iced tea or drinking it in moderation can be a healthier alternative.
However, even though both sweet tea and soda contain sugar, some brands of soda are more sugary than others. Some sodas, such as Coke, can have as much as 140 calories in a 12-ounce can. Others, such as Sprite, have as little as 80 calories.
On the other hand, a 12-ounce bottle of sweet tea has eight and a half teaspoons of sugar. This is the same amount as a chai latte at Starbucks, which has 42 grams of sugar. That’s almost as much as Pepsi’s ten teaspoons of sugar in a 12-ounce can.
Soda has a higher acidity level than sweet tea, which can erode the enamel on your teeth. Sugar is consumed by bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to cavities. Sweet tea, on the other hand, has a higher content of minerals, such as potassium, and less sugar.
In addition to being high in calories, sodas can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. They’re also highly processed, with high amounts of high fructose corn syrup and sucrose. You’ll find that these beverages aren’t necessarily better for you, but they can help you cool off during hot weather.
Regardless of whether you choose soda or sweet tea, you should always choose a healthy beverage that’s full of nutrients. Whether you opt for tea or soda, make sure to enjoy it in moderation and never before or after a meal. When choosing a drink, you should also consider the other ingredients, such as the flavors. Choosing a natural sweetening agent, such as local raw honey, can help you control your sweet tooth.
