Cookout Large Sweet Tea Nutritional Breakdown
When you order a large sweet tea from Cookout, you're primarily consuming sugar and water, with a small amount of tea infusion. The nutritional profile shows that virtually all the calories come from carbohydrates. It contains no fat or protein, making it a source of empty calories that provide quick energy without significant nutritional value. A single large tea contains 111 grams of sugar, which is a substantial amount for one drink. For context, the American Heart Association recommends no more than about 36 grams of added sugar per day for most adult men and 25 grams for adult women.
Cookout Sweet Tea Sizes and Calorie Comparison
It is important to note that Cookout offers multiple sizes of their fresh brewed sweet tea. Comparing the calorie counts across these sizes helps illustrate how portion size dramatically affects your calorie and sugar intake.
- Small (12 oz): Contains approximately 180 calories and 55g of sugar.
- Large (24 oz): Contains approximately 250 calories and 111g of sugar.
- Huge (32 oz): Contains approximately 330 calories and 148g of sugar.
Comparing Cookout Sweet Tea to Other Beverages
For a more informed choice, consider how Cookout's sweet tea stacks up against other beverage options, both within their own menu and compared to other fast-food drinks. The huge size of the sweet tea can contain as many calories as some of their shakes, despite not containing fat or protein.
| Beverage | Size | Calories | Sugar (g) | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cookout Fresh Brewed Sweet Tea | Large (24 oz) | 250 | 111 | High in sugar, zero fat/protein. |
| Cookout Fresh Brewed Unsweet Tea | All Sizes | 0 | 0 | Calorie-free alternative. |
| Cookout Hi-C® Fruit Punch | Large (24 oz) | 238 | 67 | Fewer calories and sugar than the large sweet tea. |
| Cookout Banana Berry Shake | 1 serving | 670 | N/A | Significantly higher calories due to dairy and other ingredients. |
| McDonald's Large Sweet Tea | Large | 370 | 94 | Higher in calories per serving than Cookout's large sweet tea. |
Health Implications of High Sugar Intake
Regularly consuming beverages with high sugar content can have several health implications, including weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and dental problems. The 111 grams of sugar in a large Cookout sweet tea is equivalent to roughly 27.75 teaspoons of sugar, far exceeding the daily recommended limit from health organizations. Making mindful choices about your drink order can help you manage your overall health goals without sacrificing the occasional treat.
Smarter Drink Choices at Cookout
If you're a fan of Cookout but want to make a healthier drink choice, several options are available:
- Unsweet Tea: The most straightforward alternative, offering all the flavor of tea with zero calories and sugar.
- Water: The best option for hydration with no calories, sugar, or additives.
- Diet Sodas: Cookout offers various diet soft drink options, which are also calorie-free.
Tips for Moderating Sweet Tea Consumption
For those who love sweet tea and aren't ready to give it up entirely, moderation is key. Here are some strategies:
- Downsize your order: Choosing a smaller or regular-sized sweet tea will significantly reduce your calorie and sugar intake.
- Mix and match: Order a half sweet, half unsweet tea. This cuts the sugar content in half while still providing the sweet flavor you enjoy.
- Drink water alongside: Use sweet tea as a treat and drink water with your meal to stay hydrated and balance your sugar intake.
Conclusion
While a large sweet tea at Cookout is a refreshing treat, it is a significant source of empty calories and high sugar content, providing 250 calories and 111 grams of sugar. By understanding the nutritional facts, you can make more informed decisions about your beverage choices. Whether you opt for a smaller size, switch to an unsweetened option, or choose water, there are several ways to enjoy your meal at Cookout while being mindful of your health goals.
For more detailed nutritional information and a full menu breakdown, you can visit the official Cookout website, which provides comprehensive data for all their food and drink items.
