One serving of lemon tea, made from instant powder with added ascorbic acid and sweetened with sugar, contains 89 calories.

Lemon tea is a popular beverage made with a combination of lemon flavor, tea powder, and sugar. It has a refreshing taste and aroma, along with some potential benefits for health. On the downside, it also contains sugar and calories, which can be harmful if consumed in excess.

In this article, we'll explore the calorie count, nutritional value, benefits, and risks of drinking lemon tea, along with some healthy alternatives to sugar-sweetened tea.

The Calorie Count of One Serving

As mentioned earlier, one serving of lemon tea, which is equivalent to three heaping teaspoons or 15 grams, contains 89 calories. The calorie count in lemon tea may vary depending on the brand and the preparation method. However, on average, it contains around 75-100 calories per serving, which primarily comes from the sugar content.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cup of Lemon Tea

To prepare a cup of lemon tea, you will need a teaspoon of instant lemon tea powder, a cup of hot water, and sugar (optional). Here are the steps to follow:

1. Boil a cup of water on a stove or in a kettle.
2. Add a teaspoon of instant lemon tea powder to the cup.
3. Pour the hot water into the cup and stir well.
4. Add sugar as per your taste needs and stir until it dissolves.
5. Serve hot and enjoy your lemon tea.

The Nutritional Value of Lemon Tea

In terms of nutrition, lemon tea contains small amounts of Vitamin C and antioxidants, along with some calories, carbohydrates, and sodium. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (15 grams):

• Calories: 89
• Total Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Sugars: 11 g
• Sodium: 13 mg
• Vitamin C: 5 mg (6% of Daily Value)

The Sugar Content of the Tea

One serving of lemon tea contains approximately 11 grams of sugar, which accounts for about 40% of the total carbohydrates. While sugar may enhance the taste and aroma of lemon tea, it can also contribute to health problems like diabetes, obesity, and tooth decay if consumed in excess.

The Benefits of Consuming Lemon Tea

Lemon tea is known for its potential health benefits due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the benefits of drinking lemon tea are as follows:

• Boosts immunity: Lemon tea contains Vitamin C, which is crucial for boosting immune function and fighting infections.
• Relieves stress: The aroma and flavor of lemon tea can have a calming effect on the mind and reduce stress levels.
• Aids digestion: Lemon tea may help to improve digestion and relieve stomach problems like bloating and constipation.
• Hydrates the body: Drinking lemon tea can help to meet the daily fluid requirements of the body and prevent dehydration.

The Potential Risks of Drinking Lemon Tea

While lemon tea may have some benefits for health, it also comes with certain risks and side effects. Some of the potential risks of drinking lemon tea are as follows:

• Increased sugar intake: Lemon tea is high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems if consumed in excess.
• Acidic effects: Lemon tea may be acidic in nature, which can cause acid reflux, heartburn, and other digestive problems in some people.
• Caffeine sensitivity: Lemon tea contains caffeine, which can cause side effects like insomnia, anxiety, and palpitations in people who are sensitive to it.
• Interference with medications: Lemon tea may interact with certain medications and cause adverse effects. Consult with a healthcare professional before consuming it if you are on any medication.

Healthy Alternatives to Sugar-Sweetened Tea

If you're looking for healthy alternatives to sugar-sweetened tea, here are some options to consider:

• Herbal tea: Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea are naturally caffeine-free and low in calories, making them an ideal substitute for sugary drinks.
• Green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and has several health benefits. It has a subtle and refreshing taste, and you may add a small amount of honey or lemon to enhance its flavor.
• Fruit-infused water: Infusing water with fruits like lemon, lime, berries, or cucumber is a healthy way to stay hydrated and enjoy a refreshing and natural flavor without added sugars.

The Importance of Vitamin C in Your Diet

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including immune function, tissue repair, and iron absorption. However, your body cannot produce Vitamin C on its own, and you need to get it from food or supplements. Some of the best food sources of Vitamin C are citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and peppers.

How Much Vitamin C is in the Tea?

One serving of lemon tea contains about 5 milligrams of Vitamin C, which is 6% of the daily value. Although this amount is not significant, it can still contribute to your daily intake of Vitamin C. However, keep in mind that consuming too much Vitamin C may cause side effects like diarrhea, nausea, or stomach cramps.

Other Ingredients Found in Lemon Tea

Apart from lemon flavor, instant tea powder, ascorbic acid, and sugar, lemon tea may also contain some other ingredients like artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Check the label of the product to see the complete list of ingredients and their amounts to ensure that it is safe and healthy for consumption.