With the arrival of their Holiday Drinks, it’s hard not to make Starbucks a part of your daily routine. But those chestnut praline lattes quickly add up and if you’re looking to stick to your fitness goals or just trying to cut unnecessary calories, then remember these tips next time at the register:
1. Make it “skinny”
You can make any drink “skinny” which means nonfat milk instead of whole milk, sugar-free syrup, and no whip cream. It cuts the fat and sugar without sacrificing flavor!
2. Skip the dairy all together
Cutting consumption of dairy is linked to fewer breakouts and less bloating, so instead of milk opt for coconut milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Try coconut or almond milk for a nice, subtle hint of flavor!
3. Just a few pumps
Can’t seem to skip the syrup, mocha sauce, or whip cream? Just ask for fewer pumps, skinny mocha sauce, or less whip cream! Even these little adjustments make a big difference in the long run.
4. Size matters
The amount of sugar, fat, and calories are quite different in a venti and a grande. Choose the size based on the goals you’re trying to attain (you can still treat yourself, but in a smaller quantity!). If you’re trying to lose weight, it might not be the best idea to get a venti. Instead opt for a tall or a grande. Want something even smaller than a tall? Ask for a Short, just 8 oz! You’ll still get your holiday drink fix.
5. Be your own barista
You can get the holiday flavors like your favorite drinks without the extra fixins! Ask for a regular, grande hot or iced coffee with room (opt for nonfat milk or any of the dairy free options) and foam. Then at the station with the napkins and spices, add cinnamon and chocolate (or vanilla). Viola, you can still enjoy the holidays without the added sugar and fat!
6. Instead of a holiday drink, opt for tea
Tea has 0 calories and no sugar or fat! If you’re looking for that holiday drink fix, try a chai tea. It mimics many of the holiday drinks’ flavors!
7. For teas (and plain coffee), ask for no sweetener or syrup
It only has 0 calories, no sugar, and no fat without the sweetener or syrup! If you must make it sweet, ask for a sweetener substitute or add honey, a natural sweetener. It’s a good alternative to high fructose corn syrup which is a main ingredient in many of the syrups and sweeteners!