Green tea is a popular beverage in Australia, cherished for its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits. One common question among green tea lovers is about its calorie content-how many calories does green tea actually have, and how does it fit into a healthy lifestyle? Here’s a clear and updated guide to green tea calories tailored for Australians.
How Many Calories Are in Green Tea?
When consumed plain-without added sugar, milk, or cream-green tea contains very few calories. According to Australian nutrition data:
- A standard cup (about 230 ml) of brewed green tea has approximately 0 to 2 calories.
- Ready-to-drink unsweetened green tea beverages, such as those by Ito En, contain about 5 calories per 500 ml.
- Sweetened or flavored green tea drinks, like Lipton Ice Green Tea, can have significantly more calories-about 38 calories per 200 ml due to added sugars.
Why Is Green Tea So Low in Calories?
Green tea is essentially an infusion of tea leaves in hot water, which contains minimal macronutrients like fats, carbs, or proteins. The tiny calorie count comes from trace amounts of natural compounds extracted during brewing. When no sweeteners or additives are included, green tea remains a near-zero calorie drink.
Calorie Comparison: Green Tea vs Other Beverages
| Beverage | Calories per 230 ml (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Plain Green Tea | 0–2 |
| Black Tea | 2–5 |
| Brewed Coffee | 2–5 |
| Milk (2%) | 100–130 |
| Fruit Juice (100%) | 100–120 |
| Regular Soft Drink | 90–100 |
| Sweetened Iced Green Tea | 40–50 |
This comparison highlights why green tea is a great choice for Australians aiming to reduce calorie intake or manage weight.
Does Adding Ingredients Affect Calories?
Yes. Adding sugar, honey, milk, or cream can dramatically increase the calorie content of green tea. For example:
- A teaspoon of sugar adds about 16 calories.
- A splash of milk or cream can add 20–50 calories depending on quantity and type.
To keep green tea low-calorie, enjoy it plain or with minimal natural sweeteners.
Green Tea and Weight Management
Because of its negligible calories and metabolism-boosting antioxidants, green tea is often included in weight loss and health programs. It may help increase fat oxidation and improve digestion, supporting Australians in maintaining a healthy weight.
Popular Green Tea Options in Australia
- Brewed Loose Leaf or Tea Bags: The purest and lowest-calorie form.
- Ready-to-Drink Bottled Green Teas: Brands like Ito En offer unsweetened varieties with minimal calories.
- Matcha Powder: Contains slightly more calories due to consuming the whole leaf but still low overall.
Plain green tea is an excellent low-calorie beverage choice for Australians, containing virtually zero calories when consumed without additives. It’s a refreshing way to hydrate, support metabolism, and enjoy numerous health benefits without worrying about calorie intake. Just be mindful of sweeteners or milk, which can quickly add calories.