Drinking cold tea in summer makes many people feel refreshed and relaxed. Be it iced tea or leftover tea kept in the fridge, the taste of both is different and cooling. But is it beneficial or harmful for the body? Let us understand.

Benefits of drinking cold tea
1. Relief from dehydration
In summer, there is excessive sweating and there is lack of water in the body. Cold tea, especially iced tea, provides instant hydration and relief.

2. Rich in antioxidants
The antioxidants found in green tea, black tea and herbal tea remain intact even after cooling. These help in removing toxins from the body and improving the skin.

3. Helpful in refreshing the mood
Cold drinks naturally calm the mind. Stress reduces and the mind feels light.

4. Helpful in weight loss
Sugar-free iced tea increases metabolism. It has low calories, hence it can be a healthy alternative to cold drinks.

Disadvantages of drinking cold tea
1. Leftover cold tea can be harmful
Bacteria can grow in tea kept in the refrigerator for 24 hours or more. It can cause stomach upset, gas and acidity.

2. Iced tea with excess sugar is harmful
Iced tea from the market or tea made at home by adding too much sugar can increase obesity, diabetes and blood sugar.

3. Cold tea can increase acidity
Black tea, especially when cooled, can cause heartburn and gas problems in some people. Do not drink at all on an empty stomach.

4. Excessive consumption affects sleep
Be it cold or hot, tea contains caffeine. Therefore drinking it in excess can disrupt sleep.

Drinking cold tea is both beneficial and harmful, depending on how you prepare it, how old it is and how much sugar you add. Fresh, low-sugar iced tea is a better choice for health.