Who doesn’t love a Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte on a cool fall day? It’s a seasonal drink, which means we can only enjoy them for a limited amount of time! That first sip reminds us: “This cup is going to get me through our morning classes and energize me throughout the day! Hooray!”
But, it isn’t just a Pumpkin Spice Latte that Starbucks has to offer this time of year. Their Java Chip Frappuccino, Caramel Macchiato, and Salted Caramel Mocha are all just so delicious!
Starbucks offers seemingly endless options. But let’s stop for a second and talk about the fact that these drinks can range anywhere from 240-460 calories! Didn’t your mother, trainer, or nutritionist ever say, “You shouldn’t drink your calories.”?
So, what can be done about it? Is there a healthy alternative, a way that we can cut down our calorie intake while still enjoying these drinks? YES! Thank goodness. Every drink that you order can be made in a “skinny” way. Most of the original non-skinny drinks are made with sugar syrups, 2% milk, and whipped cream, but did you know that you can request sugar free syrups, fat free milk, and without whipped cream?
I know, I know. I’m asking a lot. But, it’s worth it! Here is a perfect example of the calorie cut down by ordering “Skinny”:
Grande Caramel Macchiato (Grande Size)
- -2% milk
- -Vanilla flavored syrup
- -Whipped cream
- -Caramel syrup drizzled on top
- -240 Calories
Skinny Caramel Macchiato (Grande Size)
- -Fat Free Milk
- -Sugar Free Vanilla Flavored Syrup
- -No whipped cream
- -140 Calories
Isn’t that crazy? Not only that, but the Skinny Macchiato is delicious!
The next time you go to Starbucks, ask for the skinny option! It really does make you feel a little bit better about what you are drinking, without risking the flavor. Despite the benefits of a Skinny drink, don’t feel bad if one day you opt out and go for the original mix. You’re allowed to cheat occasionally, especially if it’s been an exceptionally stressful week… or if you just need a little whipped cream to improve your day.