Calories in Iced Tea: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Iced tea is a widely consumed beverage that ranges from virtually calorie-free when unsweetened to about 89 calories per 8 oz glass in its traditional sweetened form. The calorie content depends almost entirely on the amount of added sugar, as brewed tea itself contains negligible calories. Iced tea also provides a moderate amount of caffeine along with polyphenol antioxidants from the tea leaves.

Calories by serving size:

The calorie range between iced tea varieties is enormous. Unsweetened iced tea is essentially calorie-free at just 2 calories per glass, while a 16 oz bottle of sweetened iced tea can pack 180 calories and over 40 grams of sugar. Bottled iced teas tend to be among the highest in sugar, often rivaling sodas. Brewing your own tea and controlling the sweetener is the most effective way to enjoy iced tea while managing calorie intake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the calorie difference between sweetened and unsweetened iced tea?

Unsweetened iced tea has only about 2 calories per 8 oz glass, while sweetened iced tea has approximately 89 calories for the same serving size. The difference comes entirely from the added sugar, which contributes about 22 grams per 8 oz in a typical sweetened recipe. Choosing unsweetened tea is one of the easiest ways to eliminate liquid calories from your diet.

Is unsweetened iced tea healthy?

Unsweetened iced tea is a very healthy beverage choice, providing antioxidant polyphenols and flavonoids with essentially zero calories. Studies have linked regular tea consumption to improved heart health and reduced inflammation. It also provides a gentle caffeine boost of about 26 mg per 8 oz, which is roughly a quarter of what you would get from coffee.

How many calories are in an Arnold Palmer?

A standard 8 oz Arnold Palmer, which is a half-and-half mix of iced tea and lemonade, contains about 50 calories and 13 grams of sugar. Bottled Arnold Palmer varieties can be higher, with some 23 oz cans containing around 160 to 180 calories total. Making your own with unsweetened tea and a splash of lemon juice can reduce the calorie count significantly.

How do bottled iced teas compare to homemade?

Bottled iced teas are typically much higher in sugar and calories than homemade versions. A 16 oz bottle of Snapple Peach Tea contains 160 calories and 39 grams of sugar, whereas home-brewed iced tea with one teaspoon of sugar would have only about 18 calories. Reading the nutrition label is important, as many bottled teas market themselves as healthy while containing as much sugar as soda.

How much caffeine is in iced tea?

An 8 oz glass of iced tea made from black tea contains approximately 26 mg of caffeine, which is about a quarter of what an 8 oz cup of coffee provides. Green tea-based iced teas have slightly less, around 15 to 20 mg per 8 oz. Herbal iced teas are naturally caffeine-free, making them a good option for those sensitive to stimulants.