Iced tea can be a refreshing and healthier alternative to many sugary soft drinks, especially when brewed at home without added sugars. Unsweetened iced tea—particularly when made from green or black tea—contains antioxidants like catechins and polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation, support heart health, and boost metabolism.
However, not all iced teas are created equal. Bottled iced teas, like many commercial brands, often contain added sugars, artificial flavours, and preservatives that reduce their health benefits. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy them once in a while:
Is iced tea just cold tea?
At its core, iced tea is cold tea—but it's a little more nuanced. While iced tea can simply be hot tea that’s been chilled, the brewing process, sweeteners, and flavours added often distinguish it from traditional hot tea.
Many people steep tea bags or loose-leaf tea, then chill the beverage in the fridge. Others use cold brew methods, where the tea steeps in cold water over several hours, resulting in a smoother taste with less bitterness. For example, you can create amazing orange iced tea using these Tetley tea bags and the best part it doesn’t contain any sugar.
So, yes, iced tea is cold tea, but with room for creativity through flavours, sweeteners, and garnishes like lemon or mint.
Do you put milk in iced tea?
In general, milk is not added to iced tea, especially in North American-style versions like lemon iced tea or peach iced tea. Adding milk to iced tea—particularly citrus-based iced teas like this lemon Nestea powder—can cause curdling due to the acidic nature of the drink.
However, some tea cultures, like in Hong Kong or Thailand, serve milk-based iced teas such as Thai Iced Tea or Hong Kong Milk Tea. These are made with strong black tea, sweetened condensed milk, and ice, offering a richer, creamier flavour.
So while you can put milk in iced tea, it depends on the style and flavour profile you’re aiming for.
Can you make iced tea with normal tea bags?
Absolutely! Regular tea bags work perfectly for making iced tea at home. Whether you prefer black, green, herbal or even this peppermint tea, all you need is:
1. Boiling water to steep the tea bags.
2. Time for the tea to cool down.
3. Ice or refrigeration to chill it.
For stronger iced tea, use 2 tea bags per cup of hot water and steep a little longer than usual. Once cooled, add lemon, mint, or a dash of honey for extra flavour.
You can also cold brew using normal tea bags—just place them in cold water and let steep in the fridge for 6–8 hours.
Is iced tea better than Coke?
When it comes to health, iced tea wins—especially unsweetened or lightly sweetened versions. Here’s a quick comparison:
· Coke contains approximately 140 calories per 355ml serving, with 39 grams of sugar and around 34 milligrams of caffeine. It offers high sugar content and zero nutritional value.
· Unsweetened iced tea has between 0 to 5 calories, 0 to 2 grams of sugar, and 25 to 50 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the type of tea used. It is a healthier option as it contains antioxidants.
· Sweetened iced tea typically contains around 80 to 120 calories, 20 to 30 grams of sugar, and 25 to 50 milligrams of caffeine. While it has less sugar than Coke, it still includes some antioxidants, making it a slightly better choice.
In short: Yes, iced tea is better than Coke, especially if you brew it yourself without excessive sugar.
What is the white stuff in iced tea?
If you've noticed white floaties or sediment in your iced tea, don’t worry—it’s usually harmless. This “white stuff” is typically:
· Precipitated tea compounds like tannins or polyphenols.
· Minerals from hard water combining with tea compounds.
· If left too long in the fridge, tea can oxidize slightly and develop harmless particles.
To minimize this, use filtered water, drink the tea within 2–3 days, and keep it covered and chilled.
Is Lipton iced tea actually tea?
Yes, Lipton iced tea is made from real tea leaves, usually black tea. However, many of their bottled products contain added sugars, flavours, and preservatives, which can diminish the health benefits associated with traditional tea.
If you’re seeking the health perks of tea, try Lipton’s unsweetened or cold brew tea bags instead of bottled varieties. These offer a more natural tea experience without the additives.
Is it OK to drink iced tea instead of water?
While iced tea can contribute to your daily fluid intake, it’s not a perfect replacement for plain water. Here's why:
· Caffeine in iced tea (especially black tea) has a diuretic effect, though this is mild for most people.
· Some sweetened iced teas contain sugar, which adds unnecessary calories.
· Tannins and oxalates in tea may interfere with iron absorption and contribute to kidney stones in sensitive individuals.
That said, drinking a few glasses of unsweetened iced tea a day is generally safe for healthy adults. But don’t ditch water entirely—plain H₂O remains the gold standard for hydration.
Why is iced tea frothy?
Froth in iced tea often appears when:
· Tea is shaken vigorously, especially when mixed with sugar or lemon juice.
· There’s air trapped in the liquid during pouring or blending.
· Certain teas like green tea naturally produce a light foam when shaken or stirred due to saponins—natural surfactants in plants.
The frothy layer is harmless, though some people find it aesthetically unpleasant. To reduce it, stir gently instead of shaking, and pour slowly.
Why does iced tea hurt my stomach?
Some people experience stomach discomfort after drinking iced tea. Possible reasons include:
1. High acidity: Black and green teas can be acidic, which may irritate the stomach lining.
2. Caffeine sensitivity: Even moderate amounts of caffeine can trigger acid reflux, gas, or cramps in some individuals.
3. Tannins: These natural compounds can cause nausea if consumed on an empty stomach.
4. Cold temperature: Drinking icy beverages too quickly can cause stomach spasms or bloating in sensitive people.
If iced tea bothers your stomach, try:
· Switching to herbal or decaffeinated tea.
· Drinking it at room temperature instead of ice cold.
· Avoiding it on an empty stomach.
Final Thoughts
Iced tea is more than just cold tea—it’s a versatile, flavourful drink that can be both healthy and hydrating when consumed mindfully. Whether you’re brewing it at home or picking up a bottle from the store, always check the ingredients and keep an eye on sugar levels.
Compared to sugary sodas like Coke, iced tea—especially unsweetened—offers a healthier choice rich in antioxidants. But as with anything, moderation is key, and it’s best to enjoy iced tea alongside plenty of plain water.
So the next time you’re wondering if iced tea is healthy to drink, the answer is: Yes—especially when you brew it right.
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