If you’re a caffeine addict and simply can’t do without your daily Starbucks fix, choosing the healthiest drink at the coffee giant can be tough. Of course, some beverages may seem healthy, but in reality, they’re packed with sugar and calories that negate any potential benefits. Fortunately, with a little knowledge and planning, you can make smarter choices and enjoy a refreshing, delicious, and nutritious Starbucks drink that won’t derail your health goals.
Finding the healthiest drink at Starbucks isn’t an easy feat. With a seemingly endless variety of options for coffee lovers, it’s understandable if you feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot brew, iced coffee, or tea, there are several healthy beverages on the menu. Of course, there are also plenty of high-calorie, high-sugar bombs that can take a toll on your waistline and overall wellbeing. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best choices to help you enjoy your favorite Starbucks drinks while keeping your health in mind. So go ahead, take a sip, and feel good about what you’re drinking!
Starbucks has become an iconic brand, synonymous with coffee around the world. However, with over 25,000 locations globally, Starbucks has much more to offer than just coffee. The Seattle-based company has rolled out a vast menu spanning a range of drinks, including tea lattes, fruit smoothies, and hot chocolate. With so many tasty choices available, it’s not always easy to determine which option is the healthiest drink at Starbucks. But fear not, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the best healthy drinks on the Starbucks menu, so you can indulge without compromising your health goals. So sit back, relax and read on.
Low-Calorie Starbucks Drinks
When looking for a healthier option at Starbucks, customers often opt for drinks that are lower in calories. Luckily, the coffee giant offers several low-calorie options that won’t leave you feeling guilty about indulging in a delicious beverage.
- Black Coffee – A standard cup of black coffee contains only 5 calories, making it the perfect low-calorie option for those who enjoy the bold taste of coffee without all the added sugars and creamers.
- Iced Coffee – Iced coffee is another great low-calorie option, coming in at only 15-25 calories depending on the size and any added sweeteners.
- Cold Brew with Cold Foam – This popular drink at Starbucks can be made low-calorie by opting for nonfat milk in the cold foam. A grande size with nonfat milk comes in at only 70 calories.
For those who prefer a non-coffee option, Starbucks also offers a variety of low-calorie tea and refreshers:
- Teavana Shaken Iced Tea – With only 30-60 calories depending on the size and added sweeteners, the shaken iced tea is a refreshing and low-calorie choice.
- Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher – This fruity refresher is a great low-calorie option, coming in at only 50-70 calories depending on the size and any modifications.
- Mango Dragonfruit Refresher – This colorful refresher is also a low-calorie option, with only 70-90 calories depending on the size and any added sweeteners.
Overall, there are plenty of low-calorie options to choose from at Starbucks, allowing customers to indulge in a delicious beverage without the added guilt.
Healthy Starbucks options
Starbucks is a go-to for many coffee lovers, but did you know that the popular chain offers plenty of healthy options? From drinks to snacks, there are plenty of choices. Let’s take a closer look at some of the healthiest options on the menu.
- Black Coffee: Let’s start with the basics. A simple cup of black coffee is a healthy choice. It’s low in calories and rich in antioxidants.
- Caffe Americano: If you’re looking for a little more kick, the Caffe Americano is a good choice. It’s an espresso shot diluted with hot water.
- Iced Coffee: A cold brew can be refreshing on a hot day, and it’s a healthier option than sugary iced beverages.
If you’re in need of a snack, there are plenty of healthy options on the menu. Fresh fruit cups, veggie and hummus boxes, and protein boxes with hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and nuts are all great choices.
Another great option for a healthy drink at Starbucks is the unsweetened Teavana Shaken Iced Green Tea. It’s a refreshing and tasty choice that’s low in calories and packed with antioxidants.
For those who need a little sweetness, the Skinny Mocha is a good option. It’s made with sugar-free syrup, nonfat milk, and espresso.
If you’re looking for nutritional information on the Starbucks menu, it’s easy to find. The chain provides nutrition facts on their website and in-store brochures.
| Drink | Calories | Sugar | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teavana Shaken Iced Green Tea | 0 | 0 g | 0 g |
| Skinny Mocha | 90 | 8 g | 1 g |
When it comes to healthy options at Starbucks, there are plenty to choose from. Black coffee, fresh snacks, and unsweetened tea are all great picks. And if you need a little sweetness, the Skinny Mocha is a good choice.
Herbal tea at Starbucks
Herbal tea is the healthiest drink you can get at Starbucks. Not only is it low in calories and sugar-free, but it also has plenty of health benefits.
Herbal teas are made by steeping herbs, fruits, or flowers in hot water. At Starbucks, you can find a variety of herbal tea options, including:
- Mint Majesty
- Peach Tranquility
- Jade Citrus Mint
Each of these options offers unique health benefits:
- Mint Majesty: This tea is made with peppermint leaves, which can aid in digestion and soothe an upset stomach. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for a caffeine-free pick-me-up.
- Peach Tranquility: Peach Tranquility is made with peach, candied pineapple, chamomile, and rose petals. Chamomile is known for its calming properties, making this tea a great option if you’re feeling stressed or anxious.
- Jade Citrus Mint: This tea is a blend of green tea, spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass. Green tea is packed with antioxidants, making it great for your skin and overall health. Spearmint can help with digestion, and lemongrass can help alleviate anxiety.
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting drink, try the Comfort Wellness Brew. It’s a blend of chamomile, peppermint, and ginger, which can help soothe your stomach and promote calmness.
| Herbal Tea Option | Health Benefits |
|---|---|
| Mint Majesty | Can aid in digestion and soothe an upset stomach |
| Peach Tranquility | Chamomile can offer calming properties |
| Jade Citrus Mint | Green tea is packed with antioxidants, spearmint can help with digestion, and lemongrass can alleviate anxiety |
Next time you’re at Starbucks, skip the sugary drinks and opt for a refreshing and nourishing herbal tea.
Starbucks Drinks for Weight Loss
Trying to lose weight but also need your daily caffeine fix? Fear not, Starbucks has you covered. Believe it or not, there are actually some drinks on their menu that can aid in weight loss. Here are some options to consider:
- Black Coffee – The classic coffee option is a great way to get your caffeine fix without any added sugar or calories. Drink it black or add a splash of non-dairy milk for a little extra flavor.
- Green Tea – Rich in antioxidants, green tea has been shown to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss. Try the Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea for a refreshing option.
- Iced Coffee – A great way to cool down on a hot day, but be sure to keep it simple. Opt for black coffee or add a splash of non-dairy milk and skip the syrup and added sugars.
While these drinks can aid in weight loss, it’s important to remember that a healthy diet and exercise are key components to any weight loss journey. It’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes and not rely solely on drinks to help shed pounds.
If you’re looking for more detailed nutritional information on Starbucks’ drinks, check out the table below:
| Drink | Calories (Tall) | Sugar (g) (Tall) |
|---|---|---|
| Caffe Americano | 10 | 0 |
| Caffe Latte | 110 | 11 |
| Cappuccino | 80 | 8 |
| Flat White | 170 | 17 |
| Green Tea Latte | 150 | 29 |
| Skinny Mocha | 110 | 12 |
| Vanilla Latte | 180 | 24 |
When making choices at Starbucks, be mindful of added sugars and choose non-dairy milk options to reduce calorie intake. With a little bit of knowledge and some smart choices, you can enjoy your favorite Starbucks drinks while still working towards your weight loss goals.
Dairy-free Starbucks options
For those who can’t consume dairy, Starbucks has several dairy-free options for both beverages and food items. In terms of drinks, the dairy-free bases include almond milk, coconut milk, and soy milk. These alternatives are great for individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy.
Top 3 Dairy-Free Starbucks Beverages
- Coconut milk latte – made with Starbucks Blonde Espresso and velvety steamed coconut milk. This dairy-free option has less sugar than the coconut milk mocha macchiato.
- Iced almond milk latte – a refreshing pick-me-up with Starbucks Blonde Espresso, steamed almond milk, and ice.
- Soy caramel macchiato – Starbucks classic espresso drink with a rich caramel flavor and soy milk instead of dairy.
Dairy-Free Food Options
Aside from beverages, Starbucks also has several dairy-free food options. Here are a few tasty options:
Avocado Spread – mashed avocado, sea salt, onion, garlic, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice, served with multigrain toast.
Classic Oatmeal – made with steel-cut oats, water, rolled oats, and a hint of salt. Available with toppings such as brown sugar, nuts, and dried fruit.
Almond Butter, Strawberry & Jam Sandwich – almond butter and strawberry jam served on toasted multigrain bread.
Which Dairy-Free Option Should You Choose?
When ordering a Starbucks drink or food item, it’s important to consider not only the dairy-free options but also sugar content and ingredients. The best option for you will depend on your dietary restrictions and preferences. It’s always a good idea to check with a barista if you have any questions or concerns about an item.
| Beverage/food item | Sugar (grams) | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut milk latte (grande) | 12 | 120 |
| Iced almond milk latte (grande) | 7 | 80 |
| Soy caramel macchiato (grande) | 26 | 240 |
| Avocado Spread | 2 | 90 |
| Classic Oatmeal | 0 (without toppings) | 160 |
| Almond Butter, Strawberry & Jam Sandwich | 10 | 420 |
Overall, Starbucks has a variety of dairy-free options to choose from – both beverages and food items. By considering sugar content and ingredients, you can make an informed decision on which option is the best for your health needs and preferences.
Non-coffee Starbucks drinks
For those who are not coffee lovers, Starbucks still offers a variety of tasty options. Here are some of their healthiest non-coffee drinks:
- Teavana Brewed Iced Tea: This refreshing drink is made with just water and tea, making it a great low-calorie option. Plus, tea is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to potential health benefits such as improved heart health and decreased risk of chronic diseases.
- Chai Tea Latte with Almond Milk: Choose a non-dairy milk for a healthier option. This drink is a delicious blend of black tea, spices, and steamed milk. Almond milk is low in calories and high in protein and healthy fats, making it a great alternative to regular milk or cream.
- Matcha Green Tea Latte with Almond Milk: Another option with almond milk, this latte is made from high-quality matcha powder and steamed milk. Matcha is a type of green tea that is ground into a fine powder, providing a concentrated source of antioxidants and potentially boosting brain function.
It’s important to note that many of Starbucks’ non-coffee drinks can be high in sugar, so be sure to ask for any modifications to reduce the sugar content. You can also opt for unsweetened versions of any of these drinks.
Antioxidant-rich Starbucks beverages
Antioxidants are substances that protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals, which can help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Here are some of the antioxidant-rich Starbucks beverages that you can add to your daily routine:
- Green tea: The catechins in green tea are potent antioxidants that help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. Starbucks offers a variety of green tea beverages, including shaken iced green tea, matcha green tea latte, and matcha lemonade.
- Berry hibiscus refresher: This refreshing drink is a blend of hibiscus, lemongrass, and apple flavors, with real berries and ginger. Hibiscus is known for its high antioxidant content and its ability to lower blood pressure.
- Cold brew coffee: Cold brew coffee has a higher antioxidant content than regular coffee because it is brewed with cold water, which extracts more antioxidants from the coffee beans. Starbucks offers a variety of cold brew beverages, including nitro cold brew and sweet cream cold brew.
The Benefits of Antioxidant-rich Starbucks Beverages
Adding antioxidant-rich Starbucks beverages to your daily routine can provide several health benefits. Antioxidants are known to reduce inflammation, improve brain function, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Antioxidant Content of Starbucks Drinks
The antioxidant content of Starbucks beverages can vary depending on the type of drink and the brewing method used. Cold brew coffee, for example, has a higher antioxidant content than regular coffee because it is brewed with cold water, which extracts more antioxidants from the coffee beans. Similarly, matcha green tea latte has a higher antioxidant content than regular green tea because it is made with whole ground tea leaves, which are higher in antioxidants than the brewed tea.
| Beverage | Antioxidant Content (ORAC value/ serving size) |
|---|---|
| Caffe Americano | 350 |
| Caffe latte | 940 |
| Cold brew coffee | 1,745 |
| Matcha green tea latte | 3,000 |
As you can see from the table above, cold brew coffee and matcha green tea latte have higher ORAC values than caffe Americano and caffe latte. This means that they have a higher antioxidant content per serving.
What is the healthiest drink at Starbucks?
Here are 7 FAQs to help you choose a healthy option:
1. What are the healthiest options for coffee?
The healthiest coffee option at Starbucks would be a plain black coffee or an Americano. They are low in calories, fat-free, and have no added sugar.
2. What about lattes?
For a healthier option, try ordering a latte with nonfat or almond milk and no whipped cream. You can also ask for one pump of syrup instead of the regular amount.
3. Can I still enjoy a Frappuccino?
Yes! Starbucks offers nonfat or almond milk options for Frappuccinos. You can also ask for fewer pumps of syrup and no whipped cream to lessen the sugar content.
4. Are there any healthy tea options?
The Teavana Shaken Iced Hibiscus Tea is a good choice. It’s low in calories and has no added sugar. You can also try ordering a hot tea with no sweetener added.
5. What about smoothies?
Starbucks offers smoothies made with whole fruits and vegetables. You can also ask for a smoothie with protein powder for a healthy boost.
6. What should I avoid?
Avoid sugary drinks such as the Caramel Macchiato or the White Chocolate Mocha. These drinks are high in calories and sugar.
7. Can I customize my drink?
Yes! Starbucks offers a variety of customization options such as nonfat milk, fewer pumps of syrup, and no whipped cream. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want to create a healthier drink.
Closing:
Thanks for reading! Next time you visit Starbucks, consider giving one of these healthier drink options a try. Don’t forget to customize to your liking for the best experience. See you soon!