🍵 Healthy or Hype: Arizona Iced Tea “No Calories”

🔍 The Claim:

“No Calories” and “Real Brewed Tea” — Arizona’s diet iced teas sound like a guilt-free hydration win. The branding leans into wellness vibes with fruit imagery, green tea claims, and sleek packaging.

🚨 The Truth Bomb:

Arizona’s “diet” and “zero calorie” teas are often loaded with:

- Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium

- Preservatives and flavor enhancers that mimic fruit or honey but offer no nutritional value

- No real tea benefits — many versions contain tea extract or concentrate, not brewed leaves

- Some even include caramel color, which has been linked to inflammation and gut disruption

The “zero calorie” label hides the fact that these drinks can still spike cravings, disrupt gut flora, and confuse hunger signals — especially when consumed regularly.

✅ Smarter Swap:

- Brew your own green or herbal tea, chill it, and add lemon, mint, or berries

- Try cucumber + basil water or hibiscus + cinnamon for flavor and antioxidants

- For fizz lovers: sparkling water + splash of citrus + pinch of sea salt

🧠 Label Literacy Tip:

“Zero calories” doesn’t mean zero impact. Flip the label and check for:

- Artificial sweeteners (sucralose, aspartame, acesulfame K)

- Real tea listed as the first ingredient

- Additives like “natural flavors” or “tea solids” — vague terms that often mean extracts

💬 What’s your favorite DIY iced tea or infused water combo?

Drop your ritual below and let’s build a MyLera “Hydration Station” full of clean, creative swaps!

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