Tea has been a popular beverage for centuries, and for good reason. Not only does it taste great, but it also offers a variety of health benefits.
While many people enjoy sweetened tea, there are numerous benefits to drinking unsweetened tea. There are many tea options available and all can be enjoyed hot or cold, sweetened or unsweetened. Popular teas like green tea, matcha tea, white tea, oolong & chamomile tea all come with their own unique properties and health benefits too. Becoming a tea enthusiast is a great and healthy nutritional hobby that is fun to explore.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of drinking unsweetened tea and why you should consider making the switch.
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Low in Calories
Hydration
Antioxidants
Improved Digestion
No Added Sugar
Versatility
3 minute read
Low in Calories
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One of the main benefits of drinking unsweetened tea is that it is low in calories.
Unlike sweetened tea, which can be loaded with sugar and calories, unsweetened tea has little to no calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or those trying to cut back on their sugar intake.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and well-being.
Unsweetened tea is a great way to stay hydrated [yes it does hydrate] without consuming sugary drinks.
In fact, unsweetened tea is just about as hydrating as water, making it a great alternative for those who struggle to drink enough water throughout the day.
Antioxidants
Tea is known for its high levels of antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Unsweetened tea, specifically brisk iced tea unsweetened, is a great source of antioxidants. These antioxidants can help boost the immune system, improve skin health, and even reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Improved Digestion
Unsweetened tea, especially herbal teas, can help improve digestion.
Certain herbs, such as peppermint and ginger, have been shown to have a calming effect on the digestive system, reducing bloating and discomfort. Additionally, the act of drinking tea can also help stimulate digestion and keep things moving smoothly.
No Added Sugar
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One of the main reasons people choose to drink unsweetened tea is to avoid added sugar.
While sugar may make tea taste better for some, it can also have negative effects on health, such as weight gain and increased risk of chronic low-grade inflammation.
This inflammation can increase risk of disease also and it happens because excess glucose can lead to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within cells. This can occur due to excess glucose causing mitochondrial dysfunction, increased glycolysis and accumulation of metabolic intermediates, activation of NADPH oxidase, and enhanced oxidative phosphorylation. These processes can generate ROS as byproducts, contributing to oxidative stress and potential cellular damage.
By choosing unsweetened tea, you can enjoy the benefits of tea without the added sugar. Or consider healthier alternatives to sugar to enhance the flavor of your tea.
Versatility
Unsweetened tea is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
You can drink it hot or cold, add different herbs or fruits for flavor, or even use it as a base for cocktails. This versatility makes it a great option for any occasion and allows you to get creative with your tea drinking experience.
Conclusion
Unsweetened tea offers a variety of benefits for both your health and taste buds. From being low in calories to providing antioxidants and improving digestion, there are many reasons to make the switch to unsweetened tea. So next time you reach for a sweetened drink, consider opting for a refreshing glass of unsweetened tea instead. Your body will thank you.