Food Showdown: How Sweet is Your Tea?

By , SparkPeople Blogger
As temperatures continue to climb this summer, sitting out on the porch with a tall glass of iced tea might sound like the perfect way to relax and refresh. Iced tea certainly isn't new on the beverage scene, but we have been slowly increasing our consumption of the warm-weather staple; last year, a national consumer survey reported that 10% of U.S. consumers are purchasing more iced tea than they did in 2009. The survey also revealed that 73% of tea drinkers prefer green tea for its antioxidants and health benefits. Drink companies have taken note of America's love of green tea and have produced dozens of flavored varieties over the past few years; however, many of those varieties pack a mean sugar punch that rivals the most sugary soft drinks on the market.

Between two popular flavored green tea varieties, Arizona Georgia Peach Green Tea and Snapple Peach Green Tea, which one should you choose if you're watching your sugar intake?
 
The Winner: Arizona Georgia Peach Green Tea!
 
 
The Snapple Peach Green Tea contains a whopping 41 grams of sugar for just eight ounces. If you drink the entire 16-ounce can, that brings you up to 82 grams of sugar in one sitting! The Arizona Georgia Peach Green Tea contains just 17 grams of sugar for eight ounces. However, 17 grams is equivalent to just over 4 teaspoons of sugar, which is still quite a bit--plus, there are three servings in a 24-ounce can. You'd be better off brewing your own green tea at home and spiking your glass with fresh fruit. Try lemon, peaches, raspberries, and blueberries for refreshing flavor without the sugar rush.