Iced tea is refreshing but contains a lot of added sugar — 65 grams per 20-ounce bottle, on average. This sugar often comes from sugar substitutes like sucrose, which could increase blood sugar levels. However, since iced tea is made using tea leaves — a rich source of polyphenols with antioxidant properties, it can boost your heart health and enhance your immunity. Keep in mind a few things, and you can enjoy it worry-free.
Making iced tea better for sugar control
• Consider having a sugar-free or no-sugar iced tea; it’ll keep you hydrated without causing a spike in your blood glucose levels.
• Iced tea mixes have a high sugar content, so consider swapping them for a light iced tea at home; it’ll help you control the sugar you consume.
• Try a sugar-free alternative to iced tea. Sugarless lime with soda, cold herbal teas, and kombucha are equally good and do not cause blood sugar spikes.
• Having it with a few nuts or protein-rich snacks will help to control sugar spikes. Healthy fats and proteins will slow down the release of glucose in the bloodstream.
Iced tea is a great way to hydrate yourself. Iced tea is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and catechins. This helps to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicles. It also improves your immune system. You can enjoy all these benefits without causing a sugar spike by choosing a healthier version of the iced tea.
