When heading to Starbucks for your daily caffeine fix, it’s important to be aware of the high-calorie and sugary options available. Some of the drinks at Starbucks contain as many calories as a snack or meal, so choosing wisely is key. Registered dietitians recommend looking for beverages that have a greater portion of black coffee versus creamers, milks, and syrups to avoid consuming excess calories, saturated fat, and sugar. They also caution against drinks that come in ready-to-mix powders, as these tend to have added sugars that are hard to customize.
Starbucks provides transparency in their ingredients and nutritional information on their website and app, so it’s a good idea to use these tools to assess the healthfulness of your favorite drink. Look for opportunities to make customizations that can reduce calories, saturated fat, and added sugars. The recommended daily limit for caffeine is 400 milligrams, so feel free to enjoy some healthy options at Starbucks, such as a Caffè Latte, Iced Passion Tango Tea, Caffè Americano, Green Tea, and Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew. These drinks offer a combination of caffeine, antioxidants, and nutrients without excess calories and sugar.
A Caffè Latte is a good choice for a protein-rich beverage that also provides vitamin D and calcium, while an Iced Passion Tango Tea is a zero-calorie option with anti-inflammatory benefits from hibiscus. Caffè Americano is a low-calorie choice that can be customized with sugar-free syrups for added sweetness. Green Tea offers the calming effects of L-theanine and anti-inflammatory benefits from polyphenols, making it a refreshing and calorie-free beverage. For a slightly sweetened caffeine fix, the Vanilla Sweet Cream Nitro Cold Brew is a creamy and satisfying option with just 70 calories and 4 grams of sugar.
When it comes to food options at Starbucks, it’s important to choose wisely to complement your beverage choice. Look for healthier options like rolled and steel-cut oatmeal or the egg and cheddar protein box for a balanced and nutritious breakfast. Be cautious of the many delicious-looking pastries and breakfast sandwiches available, as they may be high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar. By being mindful of your choices and using the nutritional information provided by Starbucks, you can enjoy a balanced and satisfying meal to start your day. So next time you stop by Starbucks for your morning pick-me-up, consider choosing one of the healthy drink options recommended by registered dietitians and pair it with a nutritious food option for a well-rounded meal.
