Before I came to Mississippi for college, I had never heard of a loaded tea. Not long after I got here, I could not avoid people talking about them.

So, what is a loaded tea? it's pretty simple, actually: Loaded teas are beverages that feature a cocktail of supplements with a range of purported health benefits, from performance enhancement and mental clarity to a metabolism boost and hunger suppression (Today.com). Most of them are caffeinated as well. I'm no health wizard, but this sounds a little too good to be true.

They are made from a similar formula as energy drinks, but are marketed as teas to make them sound healthier than they actually are. Most have around 20-24 calories but go up with various "boosts" consumers can get including biotin, collagen, and additional caffeine shots. A lot of loaded tea shops have the word "Nutrition" in their name, which is definitely misleading.

They are also viewed as potential meal replacements, which is not healthy, and can slower metabolism rather than boost it if consumed too many times on an empty stomach.

Here's a quote from a nutritionist with a negative viewpoint (today.com):

"The biggest beef that I have with these drinks is all the stimulants," said Johnston. "They're just an overdrive for your cardiovascular system. Your heart rate increases, your blood pressure increases, it can affect your hormones and even negatively impact your mood."

Teens and young adults are particularly susceptible to high doses of caffeine, yet are so attracted to it. College girls especially love loaded because it gives them temporary energy and because it's a "healthier" alternative to sugary coffee or a Red Bull. Plus, they are delicious; I am not even gonna lie about that.

A lot of girls I know who drink these teas multiple time a week have become addicted to them. Personally, I do not think these should be drank everyday, and they seem more harmful than hurtful in the long run. If I have a loaded tea, I only allow myself to buy one a week. Plus, they typically range from seven to nine dollars, and my wallet would be crying if I spent that on a loaded tea everyday.

Thanks for reading!