Black tea is a staple in many cultures. A standard 240ml cup of plain black tea is remarkably low in calories and macronutrients. Here is the nutrition breakdown.
• Calories: 2.37
• Protein: 0 grams (g)
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: <1 g
• Manganese: 0.519 milligrams (mg), or 23% of the Daily Value (DV)
Source: https://www.health.com/
While black tea might not be a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals overall, the presence of manganese adds to its nutritional profile. Manganese is an essential trace mineral necessary for many bodily functions. It helps in metabolism, bone health, antioxidant defense and brain function.
Black Tea also has a rich antioxidant content, specifically polyphenols like flavonoids. It helps in improving heart health, enhancing brain function and boosting immunity system. Adding milk, sugar, honey, or other ingredients will alter the calorie and nutrient content in black tea. For example, a teaspoon of sugar adds roughly 16 calories and 4 grams of carbohydrates.
The Bottom Line:
Plain black tea is a low-calorie beverage with a surprisingly good source of manganese and a wealth of health-boosting antioxidants. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet and reap its potential benefits. Just be mindful of added ingredients that can quickly change its nutritional profile.