August 31, 2018 2 min read

When Tea is as Sweet as Soda

When Tea is as Sweet as Soda: A Global Love Affair with Sugary Tea

Sugar and tea have a long and intertwined history. From the British Isles to the Deep South of the United States, people around the world have been adding sugar to their tea for centuries. While sugary tea can be delicious, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with consuming too much sugar.

Here are a few of the world's sweetest tea traditions:

  • Moroccan mint tea: This refreshing beverage is made with gunpowder green tea, spearmint, and sugar. It is often served with fresh mint leaves and almonds.
  • Taiwanese bubble tea: This popular drink is made with black tea, milk, tapioca pearls, and sugar. It is often topped with whipped cream and fruit.
  • German sweet tea: This drink is made with black tea, milk, sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. It is often served with a slice of lemon or orange.
  • Iraqi sweet tea: This drink is made with black tea, sugar, and cardamom. It is often served with dates or nuts.
  • Southern sweet tea: This iconic drink is made with black tea, sugar, and lemon juice. It is often served over ice and sweetened to taste.

While sugary tea can be enjoyed in moderation, it is important to be mindful of your sugar intake. Too much sugar can lead to health problems such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

If you are concerned about the amount of sugar in your tea, there are a few things you can do:

  • Use less sugar. You can gradually reduce the amount of sugar you add to your tea until you find a level that you enjoy.
  • Use a sugar substitute. There are many different sugar substitutes available, such as stevia and monk fruit. These sweeteners are calorie-free and have a similar sweetness to sugar.
  • Drink unsweetened tea. If you are used to drinking sugary tea, unsweetened tea may taste strange at first. But with time, you may find that you prefer the natural flavor of tea.

No matter how you choose to enjoy your tea, be sure to do so in moderation. Tea can be a delicious and healthy beverage, but too much sugar can negate its benefits.