Does Tea Have Calories? Facts, Benefits & Best Low-Calorie Options

When you think of tea, you probably picture a hot, soothing cup of green or black tea. But have you ever wondered: Does tea actually have calories?

👉 The answer is: Pure tea (without milk or sugar) is virtually calorie-free.

How Many Calories Are in Tea? ☕

• Green tea & black tea – Both come from the Camellia sinensis plant. When brewed plain, they contain around 2 calories per cup (USDA data). That’s almost nothing!
• Herbal teas (like chamomile or hibiscus) – Usually 0 calories, since they’re just dried flowers or herbs.
• Flavored teas & bottled teas – These may contain added sugars or sweeteners, which is where the calories really come from.

So, if you’re drinking loose leaf tea or tea bags with no additives, you can safely say tea is a low-calorie or zero-calorie drink.

Does Adding Sugar or Milk Change Things?

Yes! A splash of milk can add 20–30 calories, while a teaspoon of sugar adds 16 calories. That means your “healthy” cup of tea can quickly turn into a 100+ calorie drink if you’re not careful with extras.

Why Tea Is Great for Weight Management 🌿

Because tea has nearly no calories, it’s one of the best beverages for anyone looking to stay fit. Plus, it offers:

• Antioxidants – Green tea, especially, is packed with catechins.
• Gentle caffeine boost – About 30–50mg per cup for green tea, enough to energize without jitters.
• Hydration – A flavorful way to drink more fluids throughout the day.

💡 Want a refreshing upgrade? Try our Mint Green Tea Bags — all the classic green tea benefits with a cool minty twist, still zero calories and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

So, does tea have calories? Plain tea is essentially a zero-calorie drink. It’s only when you add sugar, milk, or syrups that the calories start stacking up.

If you’re aiming for a healthy lifestyle, sticking with pure teas like Mint Green Tea keeps your cup light, refreshing, and guilt-free.