The holidays are officially here, so it’s time to make our lists, check them twice, and say goodbye to pumpkin spice lattes and hello to peppermint mochas.
There’s no doubt it’s holiday-themed latte and mocha season at every coffee chain, but we’re focusing on Starbucks’ popular menu items. What are the pros and cons of those chestnut pralines and salted caramel lattes? Are any holiday coffee drinks full of sugar and calories worthy of a special treat? Here are some nutritionists’ tips on healthier drinks.
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Iced Sugar Cookie Almond Milk Latte: B+
Kylene Bogden, a registered dietitian and wellness adviser for Love Wellness, said this treat provides 150 calories, 3.5 grams of total fat, 0 grams of saturated fat, and 25 grams of added sugar. There isn’t a coffee chain that offers this. When you stop by a Starbucks, you can be confident that this beverage won’t harm you.
Chai Latte: B-
Chai lattes are either good for you or terrible, depending on where you go. According to Beckerman, because chai tea is usually blended with the best spices, such as black tea, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and cardamom, it contains the most health benefits, such as improved circulation and heart health. Some places may use chai tea concentrate, which may not have enough herbs and spices to be healthful.”
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Peppermint Mocha: C
Bogden calls the peppermint mocha a “human health bomb,” noting that a grande peppermint mocha at Starbucks has 54 grams of sugar. Coffee shops that use natural peppermint rather than peppermint-flavored syrup may provide some health benefits. Beckerman says peppermint may also improve digestion, congestion, and headaches. Moreover, peppermint may boost immunity with antioxidants.
Eggnog Latte: C-
In terms of nutrition, the eggnog latte looks pretty bad. Bogden noted that Starbucks’ grande has the highest saturated fat content and 52 grams of sugar. While the eggnog latte is unhealthy, Beckerman notes it contains 17 grams of protein. She explained, “We are working with egg whites and milk, so we have more vitamins A and D and a heftier protein profile than most other drinks.”